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Inside the Bridgestone ropes with ... Charl Schwartzel

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A quick nine with the Masters champion from South Africa.

schwartzel-masters-2011-ap.jpgView full sizeAugusta National is always going to rank highly on the favorite courses of 2011 Masters champion Charl Schwartzel.

AKRON, Ohio -- A quick nine with the Masters champion from South Africa.

Born: Aug. 31, 1984, Johannesburg, South Africa.

Height/weight: 5-11 / 140.

Turned pro: 2002.

Schwartzel was a relative unknown in the United States until April, when he rallied to win at Augusta, Ga. Schwartzel shot a 6-under 66 on Sunday -- best final round by a winner in 22 years. He became the fourth straight golfer to win his first major and the second South African in the past three.

Q: What do you remember most from your victory at the Masters?

A: Coming down the stretch being in contention, and feeling the adrenaline that comes with it.

Q: You seemed ultra-calm as you closed with four straight birdies to win by two. Were you?

A: I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little nervous. I think everyone would get nervous in that situation. The key is the way you control it. I never got to the stage where I was rattled.

Q: You held a lead when you walked the 18th fairway. Were you able to enjoy it?

A: I thought about watching Tiger, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer making that walk with a lead. Now I was doing it, and it was pretty special.

Q: Favorite course you've played?

A: Leopard Creek in South Africa. It's set in a nice environment. I always judge a course by how many times I could play it over and over, and that is one for me. Augusta National, of course, is right on its heels.

Q: Favorite club in the bag?

A: My putter is quite special to me. I've had the same sort of putter since junior. It's a look that I like.

Q: Preferred activities away from golf?

A: I like flying, water skiing, hunting. Almost any outdoor sports.

Q: So you have a pilot's license?

A: Yes. And my helicopter license. I fly to tournaments every now and again in South Africa. I haven't registered for my license in the states. It would be pretty easy to do; I just haven't done it yet.

Q: Golfer you like to follow?

A: Before Tiger had all the injuries and everything went on in his life, he was by far the most exciting player to watch. But I just haven't seen him for so long, and things have moved on and changed, so I don't know.

Q: Caddyshack or Tin Cup?

A: I've watched them both, they're both good, but I think Caddyshack wins.


Carlos Santana shrugs off anniversary of Fenway injury: Indians Insider

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A year ago Tuesday it appeared catcher Carlos Santana's career with the Indians had been, at the very least, seriously sidetracked.

santana-injury-2010-ap.jpgView full sizeCarlos Santana's left leg was in an air cast when he was carted off the field following a frightening collision at home plate on Aug. 2, 2010. "I didn't think about nothing," said Santana of the one-year anniversary. "That was last year. I'm not scared."

BOSTON -- Tuesday was the one-year anniversary of the worst day in Carlos Santana's baseball career.

Guess where he celebrated it? Same spot, same ballpark with the same team as an opponent.

Santana was back behind the plate at Fenway Park. Back behind the same dish where many in the Indians organization felt his career could have ended when he was knocked head over heels in a collision at the plate on Aug. 2, 2010. You've heard of people in car accidents being knocked out of their shoes. Santana, in full catcher's gear, was knocked out of one of his baseball spikes from the force of Ryan Kalish's slide.

Kalish, by the way, has been on the disabled list for most of this year with shoulder and neck injuries.

Santana's left leg was put in an air cast and he was driven off the field, slumped on the back of an emergency vehicle. After the doctors were able to assess the damage, the injury was not as bad as feared. Still, Santana's rookie season was over and he spent the rest of the winter rehabbing a strained lateral collateral ligament on the outside of his left knee.

The Indians returned to the scene of the injury for a four-game series Monday. Santana's mother called him from the Dominican Republic before the game. So did a couple of his friends. They wanted to make sure he was all right.

In the third inning of the Indians' 9-6 victory, Kevin Youkilis tried to score on a triple and a wild throw by center fielder Ezequiel Carrera. Josh Tomlin, the starting pitcher, ran down the ball left of the plate and threw to Santana. Santana made a diving tag to get Youkilis.

"I didn't think about nothing," said Santana, when asked if last year's collision was on his mind. "That was last year. I'm not scared. That was something that happened last year. It's been forgotten."

David Ortiz, Boston's DH, talked to Santana when he came to the plate in the first inning. The two have developed a friendship.

"Big Papi told me, 'It's been almost a year since your accident, but don't think about that. Play ball stay focused and be careful,'" said Santana. "I told him I've forgotten about the past.

"When we met he was with the Twins and I wasn't even a professional yet," said Santana. "I was very excited that he talked to me and liked me.

"He taught me a lot about the big leagues. He's a good guy, a veteran guy with a lot of experience in the big leagues and he talks to me a lot about that."

Sandy Alomar Jr., the Indians' catching coach, said Santana has recovered nicely from last year's injury.

"Carlos has handled himself pretty well after such a severe injury," said Alomar. "I don't think the play at the plate Monday could be called blocking the plate. He got the ball in plenty of time and the runner tried to avoid him.

"I think he's past that. He's held his ground at the plate. I don't think he's leery about blocking the plate."

Appeal process: Carlos Carrasco said he'll drop his appeal after Wednesday's start and serve his six-game suspension. MLB suspended Carrasco and fined him $2,500 for throwing at Billy Butler's head in a 12-0 loss Friday night.

If Carrasco starts his suspension Thursday, he wouldn't be able to pitch until Aug. 11 against Detroit at Progressive Field. Justin Masterson and Ubaldo Jimenez are in line to start Tuesday and Wednesday against the Tigers.

No-man's land: Drew Pomeranz, the player to be named in the Jimenez trade, can't join the Rockies until Aug. 16, the one-year anniversary of signing with the Indians as their No.1 pick. Until then, he'll work out at the Indians' spring training site in Goodyear, Ariz., under joint control of the Tribe and Rockies.

Alex White, the other No.1 pick included in the trade, was introduced to the Denver media on Tuesday.

Different interpretations: There's been speculation on whether Jimenez's start last Saturday will cost the Indians multiple starts by the right-hander down the stretch.

"If he hadn't started Saturday, he would have started one of these games against Boston for sure," said Manny Acta. "But I'm not going to go out on a limb and say it cost him two or three starts. A lot of people who are making these assumptions outside our clubhouse, are miscalculating how many starts he's going to have for us."

Acta said Jimenez and Masterson will start every five days for the rest of the season.

TV change: A late change to the WKYC schedule has dropped Wednesday's scheduled broadcast of Indians-Red Sox, with the station picking up Thursday night's game instead. Both games are available on SportsTime Ohio.

On Twitter: @hoynsie

The uncaged Tiger Woods is the big story at Bridgestone Invitational: Bud Shaw

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Tiger Woods returns to Firestone Country Club, the site of so many high notes for him but the place where he hit rock bottom last August. As expectations go, bet the under, sports columnist Bud Shaw writes.

Gallery previewAKRON, Ohio -- Tiger Woods picked a few pieces of granola out of a Ziploc bag and playfully tossed them at a sleepy reporter walking along the fairway at Firestone Country Club during a solo practice round Tuesday morning.

"You hungry?" Woods asked.

Given the presumed size of his appetite after a 20-month victory famine -- three years if you count wins in majors -- that's a better question for the player formerly known as the best golfer in the world.

Hungry? That may actually be the least of many compelling questions.

Healthy? Ready?

How's the swing?

Who's your caddy?

Two years of self-created tumult in Woods' life, a wavering focus and injuries conspired to damage his reputation, sent him tumbling from the top to 28th in the world rankings and emboldened the competition. The buzz over Woods' return at the Bridgestone Invitational was felt among golf fans almost immediately after he committed to playing last week. The intimate gathering following him when he teed off at 6:58 Tuesday morning did not reflect that interest only because the course was closed to the public.

Woods played in front of no more than 25 people -- his swing coach, Sean Foley, his boyhood friend and interim caddy, Bryon Bell, and two Nike representatives among the reporters and photographers in tow. After a brisk 90-minute practice round, he broke for breakfast and then hit balls on the range for 20 minutes.

Golf has survived well enough during Woods' three-month recovery from an Achilles injury at the Masters in April. The high level of interest among fans has less to do with the state of the PGA Tour in his absence than with the possibilities raised by his return to health.

What would it mean to have Woods riding high again with a new set of young-gun challengers sniping at him? How soon can we expect that?

He hasn't won since the November 2009 Australian Open, switched swing coaches, fired his long-time caddy, Steve Williams, and is looking for an experienced replacement. Just three weeks ago he allowed himself to cut loose with the driver and start hitting all his shots.

"I'm here to try to win the golf tournament," Woods said in a 25-minute press conference. "That's what I'm focused on."

Woods' game is lagging behind his confidence. How could it not?

It's difficult to imagine a more intriguing story line. Woods returns to one of his favorite haunts but also to the place where he scraped bottom a year ago. A week after he shot 74-72-75-77, he began working with Foley, who Tuesday told ESPN.com, "I'm quite happy with what I'm seeing."

Woods says he no longer thinks about his injured leg when he swings. Asked Tuesday when he last felt so good, Woods said, "Years...plural."

A return to dominance can't be ruled out. But this week? Until last year, Firestone was his personal playground. That's the only reason you wouldn't rule out contention when he tees off Thursday morning. Still, it's a reach.

You want an even longer shot? That we'll ever again see Woods as one of the greatest intimidators in sports history. That takes willing partners, and those days are gone. Inside the ropes, Woods is no longer the 800-pound tiger waiting in the tall grass to pounce. He's the guy who hits it there and sometimes needs help finding it.

Woods declared Tuesday's practice round a good one despite unintentionally giving himself lots of work out of the rough. He often drove it left off the tee, even delivering a foot-wedge along the No. 4 fairway after his ball rolled against a tree.

"The shots felt very crisp, very clean," Woods said nevertheless. "My start lines were good. They were nice and tight, which was good. So everything we've been working on we're very pleased with today."

That's the old Tiger Woods, the one who would scatter drives all around but bar the door against any and all suggestions that his game lacked consistency or direction. In the middle of a tournament, players try not to open even a peephole to negative thinking. Woods was the keeper of that gate.

It helps that he'll find a friendly face Thursday when he tees off at 1:40 p.m. in a twosome with buddy Darren Clarke.

"It's fantastic ... for all of world golf to see Tiger Woods back playing again," Clarke said Tuesday. "I'm sure he will be trying to get himself back up to where he has been before and, personally, I don't doubt he'll do that."

Clarke could prove correct. Eventually. A year after finishing Bridgestone 18-over par and 30 shots behind winner Hunter Mahan, Woods sat confidently at Tuesday's press conference and termed his expectations for this week "the same as always."

That's habit and bravado talking.

Apparently, nobody's told Tiger Woods he's no longer Tiger Woods.

Ellsbury's walk-off single lifts Boston over Cleveland Indians, 3-2

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David Huff delivers a third-straight quality outing, but Red Sox triumph in ninth.

kipnis-error-tribe-redsox-horiz-ap.jpgView full sizeJason Kipnis mishandles the ball, allowing David Ortiz to reach second base during the second inning of Tuesday night's rain-delayed game at Fenway Park. Ortiz eventually scored on a wild pitch by David Huff.

BOSTON -- David Huff could be optioned to Class AAA Columbus Wednesday when Ubaldo Jimenez joins the Indians' starting rotation.

If Huff does have to go down, it will be with the knowledge that he did his job and that he's a different pitcher than the one who fell into disfavor with the organization last year.

Huff, despite two more errors being committed behind him, left with a 2-1 lead after five quality innings Tuesday night. The Indians lost the lead and the game, 3-2, on Jacoby Ellsbury's RBI single with one out in the ninth inning.

Jason Varitek started the rally with a single against Vinnie Pestano (1-1). Josh Reddick followed with a bloop single to right field as pinch-runner Jarrod Saltalamacchia stopped at second. Ellsbury lined a clean single through the middle to win it.

Kevin Youkilis pulled the Red Sox into 2-2 tie with a leadoff homer off Rafael Perez in the sixth. Youkilis hit a 2-1 pitch over The Green Monster. Perez started the sixth in relief of Huff because lefties David Ortiz and Carl Crawford were batting second and third in the inning.

Perez retired the two lefties, but he couldn't get past the right-handed Youkilis to start the inning. The homer ruined Huff's chance for a win. The left-hander was excellent for his third straight start. He allowed one unearned run on three hits in five innings. Huff struck out six and walked two on 102 pitches. In three starts since being promoted from Columbus, Huff has allowed one earned run in 17 2/3 innings with 15 strikeouts and two walks.

Rookie third baseman Lonnie Chisenhall, following Asdrubal Cabrera's example from Monday night, wrapped a homer around Pesky's Pole in right in the fourth for a 2-1 lead against Josh Beckett. It was Chisenhall's third homer and the sixth the Indians have hit in the last two games.

Chisenhall's homer didn't hit a lady in the knee as Cabrera's 19th homer of the season did Monday, but it did count.

Huff took the lead into the fifth and came out of it still intact. It took some doing. Cabrera put Huff in trouble when he couldn't handle Ellsbury's one-out grounder. Dustin Pedroia lined a single to right to bring dangerous Adrian Gonzalez to the plate with Huff nearing the 100-pitch mark. Gonzalez, who leads the AL with 90 RBI, worked the count to 2-2 before grounding into a 4-6-3 double play.

In his last two starts, the Indians have committed five errors with Huff on the mound.

Rookie second baseman Jason Kipnis was involved in the first two runs in the game -- one in a good way, one bad.

Facing Beckett for the first time in his career, Kipnis hit a first-pitch homer into the Boston bullpen in right center in the first. It was Kipnis' third homer in as many games. According to Elias Sports Bureau, he is the first Indians rookie to homer in three straight games since Richie Sexson in August, 1997.

The Red Sox tied the score in the second. Huff walked Ortiz after having him down, 0-2. The fleet Crawford sent a hard grounder to Cabrera for what seemed a double play, but Kipnis dropped Cabrera's feed for an error and Boston had runners on first and second with no one out.

Mike Aviles singled to left to load the bases. Huff struck out Varitek on a breaking ball, but in bouncing the ball in the dirt, the pitch got away from catcher Carlos Santana as Ortiz scored on the wild pitch. Huff, who pitched around three errors in his last start, did it again as he struck out Darnell McDonald and Ellsbury.

The Indians had a two-out chance in the third when Cabrera doubled past first, but Beckett struck out Travis Hafner.

Beckett, in his third start of the season against the Indians, allowed two runs on six hits in six innings. He struck out seven and didn't walk a batter in 85 pitches.

Youkilis was ejected in the eighth for protesting his strikeout against Tony Sipp. The start of the game was delayed by rain for 1 hours and 45 minutes.

On Twitter: @hoynes

Not seeing a no-hitter? It didn't ruin a special night: Cleveland Indians Memories

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Here is Wednesday's essay by Jack Schikowski of Highland Heights.

bosman-mug-senators.jpgView full sizeJack Schikowski never actually saw Dick Bosman's no-hitter for the Indians, but he never forgot the night.

This spring, we asked readers to tell us their best memory at an Indians game. More than 600 of you responded. All season, The Plain Dealer will publish fan memories -- one each day the Indians are scheduled to play. Here is Wednesday's essay by Jack Schikowski of Highland Heights:

On July 19, 1974, it's about 6:30 p.m. I'm 22 years old and driving on the westbound Shoreway, near the East 185th Street exit, heading down to the Stadium for the Indians-A's game. A convertible zooms by me and the driver has long, flowing black hair. Just then, the right rear tire blows on the convertible and the driver pulls off on the berm. I pull over to assist. Her name is Nita, and she looks 35.

I open her trunk and find a flat spare. I suggest we take her flat spare to a gas station on East 152nd, get it plugged and come back and put it on. The station breaks down the tire, plugs it and puts it back on the rim. Now, 45 minutes later, I'm back to mount her spare and find the lugs don't match up with the rim holes.

Station now closed, I offer to drive her to her East 65th apartment so she's home safe and suggest she come back for her car later. Once there, I ask to wash up to get the dirt off my hands. She directs me to the bathroom, and while I am drying my hands, her man comes home and I hear Nita explaining the chain of events to him. As I emerge from the bathroom, here is this 6-6, 290-pound guy looking right through me.

Fortunately for me, he believes Nita that my intentions have been nothing but honorable since this ordeal began.

I guess as a gesture of appreciation, he asks me two things: Do I smoke and drink? I reply, "Taryeton's and beer." He pulls open a kitchen drawer and pulls out some homemade cigarettes and a liquor bottle with no label, just clear liquid in it. Not wanting to offend, I now join them in smoking homemade cigarettes and drinking clear liquid from a Styrofoam cup.

When I left, my radio said Dick Bosman was pitching a no-hitter in the seventh. Too late for the game, I decided to head home and pick up a pizza just as the game ended. Being a die-hard Indians fan and having a buzz from the homemade cigarettes and the clear liquid, as I paid the elderly female cashier, I blurted out loudly, "Dick Bosman just pitched a no-hitter!"

I can still see the look on that woman's face, even today.

Bridgestone Invitational 2011: Which golfer will win the championship? Poll

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Do you think Tiger Woods has a shot to capture his eighth title at Firestone?

tiger-woods-bridgestone.jpgTiger Woods poses with the trophy after winning the 2009 Bridgestone Invitational.

AKRON, Ohio -- Tiger Woods will make his return to pro golf Thursday at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone.

Woods said Tuesday he feels good, as he tries to come back from knee and Achilles' tendon injuries.

Aside from the injuries, adding to the uncertainty of Woods' game will be the fact he is playing with a new caddie, Bryon Bell, after recently parting ways with Steve Williams.

So it will surprise nobody if Woods is not at the top of his game as he tries to win his eighth Bridgestone championship.

Does Woods have a chance to win this week? A dozen or more players have been playing well of late and must be considered the favorites.

So, which player are you taking out of the field? Cast your vote in today's Starting Blocks poll.

And don't miss our Twitter updates from the course; and today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, as The Plain Dealer's Tim Rogers will break down the field and pick his winner.



Kelly Pavlik withdraws from fight against Darryl Cunningham

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Former middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik has withdrawn from Saturday's 10-round fight against Darryl Cunningham for unknown reasons.

kelly pavlik.JPGKelly Pavlik, left, was supposed to fight Darryl Cunningham next week as a tuneup to a fight against International Boxing Federation super middleweight champion Lucian Bute in November.

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Former middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik has withdrawn from Saturday's 10-round fight against Darryl Cunningham for unknown reasons.

Pavlik was scheduled to fight at the Covelli Centre in his hometown, with the bout to be televised nationally on Showtime.

Pavlik's withdrawal was announced Tuesday by Top Rank, Pavlik's promoter. Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank, said he was "very disappointed at Kelly's sudden decision to discontinue the rebuilding of his boxing career."

In January, Pavlik checked out of the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, Calif., after two months of treatment for alcoholism. Pavlik most recently fought in May, when he beat Alfonso Lopez by majority decision on the undercard for Manny Pacquiao-Shane Mosley.


Browns coach Pat Shurmur gives players day off from camp: Latest Tweets from Berea

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The Browns continue preparations for the season today in Berea in a practice that is closed to the public. Don't miss a beat as Plain Dealer Browns beat reporters @TonyGrossi and @Mary Kay Cabot tweet the latest news and observations from 76 Lou Groza Blvd.

Gallery preview

The Browns continue preparations for the session today in Berea in a session that is closed to the public. Don't miss a beat as Plain Dealer Browns beat reporters @TonyGrossi and @Mary Kay Cabot Tweet the latest news and observations from 76 Lou Groza Blvd.

While coach Pat Shurmur gave the players the day off, the team is holding punter tryouts after Reggie Hodges went down with a season-ending Achilles injury.

The next open practice will be Thursday from 4:10 -6 p.m. Get the complete training camp schedule here.

See more photos from training camp or post your own

Watch videos from Berea

Top pick Phil Taylor signs four-year deal: Browns Insider

Browns training camp log: Day 4 | Video


Could David Huff be the next Cliff Lee for Tribe? - Indians Comment of the Day

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"I know it is just his third start this yr, but he is looking Cliff Lee like. If he can locate his fastball like hes been, we might have found us another starter." - jflow21

Cleveland Indians beat Reds, 4-3Cleveland Indians starting pitcher David Huff has made the most of his recent stretch with the Tribe. Fans are wondering if a Cliff Lee-type comeback is in order.
In response to David Huff's pitching performance in yesterday's 3-2 loss in Boston, cleveland.com user jflow21 posts:

David Huff's curveball is nasty tonight. That thing is dropping two feet. I know it is just his third start this yr, but he is looking Cliff Lee like. If he can locate his fastball like hes been, we might have found us another starter.

Get in on the debate and share your thoughts.

Check out more Comments of the Day.

Browns should have made more of a splash in free agent market: Browns Comment of the Day

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"I'm not saying we should go out and spend a fortune but there have been guys out there that would make us a little more competitive without breaking the bank." -Always Next Year

holmgren-shurmur-heckert.jpgMany Browns fans seem to think the front office should have been more aggressive in free agent signings this off-season.
In response to news regarding the recent signing of former Eagles cornerback Dimitri Patterson, cleveland.com user Always Next Year posts:

I'm not saying we should go out and spend a fortune but there have been guys out there that would make us a little more competitive without breaking the bank. Guys who are proven NFL players that start in this league. Guys who could contribute in the rebuilding of this team without taking positions away from guys they are developing. Why not break the bank on one CB and move Brown into the safety spot. Not FAs who are back-ups at best or special teams guys.

Get in on the debate and share your thoughts.

Check out more Comments of the Day.

WGC-Bridgestone Invitational 2011: Tiger Woods could be in contention this weekend, says Tim Rogers (SBTV)

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Rogers predicts a victory by Darren Clarke, but can also see Woods being in the mix. Rogers also provides must-see pairings and the best places to watch the action. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Welcome to today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, hosted by Metropolitan Sports Editor Kristen Davis.


The world's best golfers are in Akron this week for the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club and The Plain Dealer will have extensive coverage. First up, let us know which golfer you predict will win in today's Starting Blocks poll. Believe it or not, Tiger Woods had the early lead Wednesday morning over Phil Mickelson.


Today's guest is Plain Dealer golf writer Tim Rogers, who checked in during a break at Firestone.


Rogers is predicting a victory by British Open champion Darren Clarke. He also says it's not improbable to believe Woods could be in contention this weekend after an 11-week layoff. Rogers also provides a fan's guide to the best places to watch the action and must-see pairings for Thursday and Friday.


Access cleveland.com/golf for updates Thursday-Sunday and to see a Plain Dealer picture gallery each day. Also, follow all of Woods' rounds with Twitter updates each day.


SBTV will return Thursday with Plain Dealer columnist Bud Shaw hitting a variety of topics.


Talk Tribe trades and more with Paul Hoynes: Podcast

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It was quite a week for the Tribe and GM Chris Antonetti. Get Paul Hoynes' take on the Indians' moves in his weekly podcast.

hoynes-headshot.jpgPaul Hoynes answers your Indians questions on Wednesdays at noon.

Should the Indians be concerned about Ubaldo Jimenez? Can they still contend in the AL Central?

Plain Dealer Indians beat writer Paul Hoynes answered those questions and more in his weekly podcast.

Among other topics discussed:

• How does Chris Antonetti's first trading deadline grade?

• How will Kosuke Fukudome fit in?

• First impressions of Lonnie Chisenhall and Jason Kipnis?

• What's Carlos Carrasco's problems been as of late?


You can download the mp3 or listen with the player to the right.


Cleveland Indians fans: What CRAZY thing happened (maybe the only time ever) in this game 50 years ago?

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The second game of a July 9, 1961 Indians-White Sox doubleheader is long forgotten, even though something unique happened.

cleveland-stadium.jpgMany memorable Indians games were played at Cleveland Stadium.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The 1961 Cleveland Indians were an un-remarkable team.

It was the kind of team Indians fans would become all too familiar with.

The 1961 season was the second of 25 straight seasons (not counting the strike-shortened, two half-seasons 1981 campaign) in which the Indians would finish at least 14 games out of first place; the second of 33 straight years (not counting 1981) in which they would finish at least 11 games behind.

Cleveland was managed, fittingly, by Jimmy Dykes, who had a superb major league playing career but a long and mediocre tenure as a big league skipper. In 22 seasons as a manager, none of Dykes' teams finished above third place.

As a manager, Dykes is most remembered for being traded. That's right. On Aug. 3, 1960, Indians general manager "Trader" Frank Lane and Detroit Tigers GM Bill DeWitt swapped managers. The Indians sent Hall of Fame player Joe Gordon - who had managed them to a second-place finish in 1959 - to the Tigers for Dykes.

The Indians were 47-37 and in third place, seven games behind the eventual champion New York Yankees, as they went into their July 9, 1961 Sunday afternoon doubleheader against the Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Stadium.

The Indians lost the first game, 7-5, on a ninth-inning, pinch-hit grand slam home run by star Chicago catcher Sherman Lollar.

Then, Cleveland dropped the nightcap, 9-8.

Something happened in that second game that maybe never has at any other time in major league history. The game wasn't locally televised. There was no SportsCenter then nor any sports talk radio shows. Nor were there fantasy leagues which engage millions of fans in players' day-to-day performances.

From retrosheet.org, here is the boxscore and, more importantly, the play-by-play of the second game of the Indians-White Sox doubleheader on July 9, 1961.

Tell us what made the game unique.

That day, the Yankees' Roger Maris slugged the 33rd of his 61 home runs to break Babe Ruth's famed record of 60, and his New York teammate, legendary Mickey Mantle, stayed at 29 homers on his way to 54.

The "M&M Boys" chase of the Babe was the story of the season, but in a different era, what happened in the Indians-White Sox twinbill second-game would have had news legs, for some time, and maybe been etched in baseball history.

What's up with the Browns? Your training camp questions answered

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With the Browns off today, Tony Grossi has been answering fans questions in lightning-round fashion on Twitter. Here is a transcript of that impromptu Q&A session.

Browns Camp 2011 Day 3Browns head coach Pat Shurmur gave his team the day off today.

With the Browns off today, Tony Grossi has been answering fans questions in lightning-round fashion on Twitter.

Here is a transcript of that impromptu Q&A session.

Be sure to follow him @TonyGrossi.

Q: Who are the punters trying out and does Dave Zastudil have an invite? - @victhriller3000

A: Dave Zastudil is nursing minor muscle pull and not being considered at present by the Browns.

Q: Do you see the Browns being active the rest of off season, other than signing a punter? I know major names gone, but we have money. - @SteelValleyMatt

A: They will bottom feed when teams start cutting rosters.

Q: Hey Tony, do the Browns still have Kaluka Maivia? Haven't heard anything about him since got hurt last season. - @cjplanck88

A: Kaluka Maiava is healthy and practicing with the Browns.

Q: Any word on free agency or do you think they are waiting to scoop up players as cuts start rolling - @matthark

A: The latter.

Q: Phil Simms was just on with Dan Patrick saying Colt McCoy can't make the downfield throws. Fact? Or did Simms not see enough? - @ScottWludyga

A: I believe I've said that before.

Q: Do Browns have any interest in Osi or Asante? Any chance Vickers or Roth returning? - @Brox_Law

A: No to all.

Q: So is it true the Browns are playing for another early draft pick? - @SamEC37

A: For what? To trade it?

Q: Why have the Browns not re-signed Nick Sorensen? - @Justin__George

A: I think less emphasis on special team players.

Q: What are the percentages that Jarrett Brown takes snaps during a game this year? - @Hoard11

A: Zero... A project.

Q: What do you think of our draft picks so far in camp? Who has stood out the most to you? - @madpup70

A: Buster Skrine. It's early.

Q: Do you have exact figures on how much cap space the Browns have? - @TwitpicksLLC

A: $30 million reportedly. Third most.

Q: Any chance #17 [Braylon Edwards] comes back? - @Brownsfan2

A: Better chance of Paul Warfield un-retiring.

Q: If $30 million of cap space, isn't there 99% rule. How do Browns work out? - @por2gez

A: Not an issue till 2013.

Q: Is Jordan Norwood expected to see some playing time this year? They seem very high on him. - @CleTribeFan

A: Now's his time.

Q: The Browns are high on [Jayme] Mitchell, isn't he larger than our typical defensive end for our scheme? Is he faster than his size indicates? - @rcblake03

A: They say he's fast. We'll see.

Q: Do you see potential in Jarrett Brown in the future or is he a shot in the dark player? - @dhoffman70

A: Nice prospect.

Q: Do you think injuries will rise across the league in comparison to previous years due to the delayed start? - @JordanUhl

A: No doubt

Q: Do you think the Browns will make an aggressive attempt at Osi Umenyiora? -  @RyanBockmuller

A: Nope.

Q: What's the real scoop behind the George Kokinis fiasco? - @bayou_g

A: Depends whose side your ask.

Q: Any chance Donte Whitner ends up with the Browns? - @CtownDawgPound

A: Not at present.

Alex Rodriguez may have taken part in illegal, underground poker games; MLB taking allegations 'very seriously:' Report

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"Because he had been warned about this before, I would say a possible suspension would be very much in play," if true, unnamed MLB executive says.

alex-rodriguez.jpgAlex Rodriguez is alleged to have taken part in illegal, underground poker games.

New York Yankees star third baseman Alex Rodriguez could be in trouble with Major League Baseball, if it's found that allegations of his participation in illegal, underground poker games is true.

Rodriguez is currently on the disabled list following July 9 knee surgery, and could return to play within the next couple weeks.

Wallace Matthews writes for ESPNNewYork.com that Rodriguez was warned by the Yankees and MLB commissioner Bud Selig in 2005 about gambling in underground poker clubs.

Now, Wallace writes about Rodriguez and the more recent underground poker allegations:

Major League Baseball is taking "very seriously" the allegations that Alex Rodriguez took part in some illegal, underground poker games, one of which reportedly turned violent, and could face suspension if his participation in the games is confirmed.

"We're talking to people involved in the investigation and we're taking this very seriously," said an MLB executive who spoke to ESPNNewYork.com on condition of anonymity. "Because he had been warned about this before, I would say a possible suspension would be very much in play."

The allegations, first published by RadarOnline.com, are that the New York Yankees third baseman played in at least two of the games, one of which took place at the Beverly Hills mansion of a record executive at which "cocaine was openly used and a fight nearly broke out when one of the players refused to pay after losing "more than a half-million dollars."

Rodriguez, 36, has 626 career home runs and is a three-time American League MVP. He admitted prior to the 2009 season that he used steroids from 2001-03.

Matthews writes about the Yankees and Selig warning Rodriguez six years ago:

...both of whom were concerned that possible involvement with gamblers who might be betting on baseball games could result in a Pete Rose-type lifetime ban from baseball.

Now, although baseball's investigation centers upon Rodriguez's card-playing and he is not thought to have gambled on the outcome of any baseball games, the fact that he may have disregarded Selig's warning is said to have angered the commissioner.

"Bud's totally fed up with him," said a baseball insider. "It's like there's something new with him every day and it's impossible to keep up with it."

MLB is also concerned that Rodriguez's name will resurface in the ongoing federal investigation of Dr. Anthony Galea, the Toronto physician charged with smuggling human growth hormone and other illegal substances into the United States. Galea has treated numerous professional athletes, including Rodriguez and Tiger Woods.


Cleveland Browns P.M. links: Can Josh Cribbs return to the big-play form of his first 5 seasons?

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Cribbs' average returns last season were down by more than six yards on kickoffs and nearly three yards on punts. Plus, Peyton Hillis, Jabaal Sheard, Buster Skrine and more links.

josh-cribbs.jpgJosh Cribbs was one of the NFL's best return men the first five seasons of his Browns career, but slipped in 2010 for a variety of reasons.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Among the Cleveland Browns' question marks -- and there are many -- heading into the 2011 season, one has been somewhat downplayed.

Can Josh Cribbs regain his form as one of the NFL's all-time best kickoff/pint returners?

Last season, Cribbs returned 40 kickoffs for a 20.4-yard average, with a long runback of a mere 37 yards. He averaged 8.4 yards on 20 punt returns, with a 17-yarder his best.

He didn't score a return touchdown for the first time in his six-season career.

In his five previous seasons, Cribbs ran back 265 kickoffs for a 26.6-yard average and eight touchdowns. He brought back 103 punts for an 11.1 average, with two TDs.

Bothersome injuries impacted Cribbs' performance last season, and opponents seemed more determined than ever to pin Cribbs -- even if it took shorter kicks -- into the most difficult spots on the field to break a return from.

Maybe the blocking for him wasn't quite as crisp.

But the question about Cribbs' ability to break big plays will linger unless he can start making them again.

Mike Wilkening of ProFootballWeekly.com writes about Cribbs:

Opponents did an especially good job blunting Cribbs' effectiveness on kickoffs, on which he has been so dangerous over the years, returning an NFL-record eight for scores since entering the NFL in 2005. One strategy that teams employed: kicking short, forcing Cribbs to catch the ball further upfield.

The Browns might welcome such kicks this season, what with the kickoff line of scrimmage moved to the 35-yard-line. Teams with kickers boasting strong legs might be inclined to try to pin Cribbs in the endzone and leave him to make a split-second decision on whether to take the ball out.

Whether Cribbs can bounce back after a disappointing 2010 season and thrive in spite of a rule that could make it more difficult for him to be a game-breaker on kickoffs is a story line to watch.

The Browns had today off.

Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Browns coverage includes beat writer Tony Grossi's answers, via Twitter, to fans' Browns questions; his Browns Training camp log: Day 4, including news of the season-ending Achiiles injury to punter Reggie Hodges; beat writer Mary Kay Cabot's Browns Insider, leading off with the team's signing of first-round draft pick Phil Taylor; her report on the Browns agreeing to terms with former Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Dimitri Patterson; and, much more.

About the Browns

Running back Peyton Hillis says success and recognition are not going to change him. By Mike McLain of the Warren Tribune Chronicle.

Daniel Wolf of the National Football Authority writes about rookie defensive end Jabaal Sheard.

An ESPN.com poll about the Browns' approach to free agency.

Rookie cornerback Buster Skrine could help solve a problem for the Browns, writes Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository.

Five key questions facing the Browns, by Mike Wilkening of ProFootballWeekly.com.

Browns notes by Bob Finnan for the News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal.

Nate Ulrich of the Akron beacon Journal writes about Reggie Hodges' season-ending injury.

The Browns' schedule over the season's first three months gives them a chance to be competitive, Mike Wilkening writes for ProFootballWeekly.com.

 

Despite the occasional tear, Darren Clarke is still living the sweet life: Bill Livingston

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Darren Clarke, a self-described "normal bloke," elicits extraordinary affection and respect from fellow players and fans.

clarke-happy-horiz-ap.jpgView full sizeA much-coveted British Open championship wasn't required to give Darren Clarke reason to enjoy life these days. But the popular Northern Ireland golfer doesn't downplay how meaningful his triumph at Royal St. George's was --- while maintaining his reputation as a "normal bloke" among his fans and peers.

AKRON, Ohio -- Only two first-time major champions have been older than Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke when he broke through. The Ulsterman had been enjoying wine, cars, cigars and life for the majority of his 42 years and 11 months when he won the British Open in July on the tilting fairways of Royal St. George's, amid wind, rain and peril from a Sunday charge by Phil Mickelson.

Clarke, who turns 43 on Aug. 14, broke through on his 20th try in the British Open. No one had ever played the event more often before winning what Clarke calls "the biggest and best tournament in the world."

It was his 54th major tournament. Only two players had teed it up more often before finally shedding their doubts and winning one. For the record, Jerry Barber and Roberto DeVicenzo were older first-time major winners and Tom Kite and Mark O'Meara made more appearances before winning.

But Clarke's British Open victory wasn't within a Green Monster -- Firestone South's iconic 667-yard long, pond-guarded 16th hole -- of the hardest thing he had ever done in golf.

Playing with his friend Tiger Woods, Clarke will test the demanding course beginning Thursday afternoon at 1:40 in the World Golf Championships Bridgestone Invitational.

In 2006, Clarke played in the Ryder Cup at the K Club in Ireland as a captain's choice soon after his wife, Heather, died following a long fight against breast cancer. He had played sparingly during the illness, while caring for his wife and their two sons.

clarke-warmup-vert-ap.jpgView full size"[Some people] probably think I'm a fat so-and-so who likes to have a good time," says Clarke, "but that's fine with me."

Determined to prove he was not selected solely on sympathy, refusing to surrender to the grief that kept threatening to break loose, Clarkewept uncontrollably -- but only after the European rout was over. He had won all three of his matches, and even the beaten Americans didn't mind all that much.

"It is not possible to compare," said Clarke, when asked to measure the gratification of Royal St. George's to the emotional tides at the K Club. "The emotions and everything that I went through walking toward that first tee at The K Club in 2006, getting onto the first tee and making contact with the golf ball and managing to look up and see that it was thankfully going down the middle of the fairway, I will never [do] anything more difficult on the golf course than I did that morning.

"To this day," he added, "I still haven't faced anything as difficult as that. That in itself made Royal St. George's an awful lot easier for me because I will never face anything as tough as what that was."

The British tabloid headlines use a baffling nickname for him, calling him "Dazza." But there had been more than a little "Razza" in his play, too.

Once eighth-ranked in the world, Clarke fell to 242nd after his wife's death. He owns two WGC titles, including one in the match-play championship (over Woods) and one at Firestone in 2003. But he had not contended in a major in years until this summer.

Clarke is a gregarious man who gives life a bear hug. The size of the hug depends on the size of his waistline.

"I just can't get myself to do it," he said of his latest plans for a diet. "I think wearing black this week could be a good start, and next week, I think that'll kick-start the metabolism."

A pint of Guinness stout was seldom out of his reach at the interview podium after he won at Royal St. George's. He bought champagne for the media afterward. "[Some people] probably think I'm a fat so-and-so who likes to have a good time, but that's fine with me," Clarke said.

His appeal to fans worldwide, he believes, is that he is a "bit of a normal bloke. There aren't many airs and graces about me."

Normal enough to get congratulatory messages from Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus after Royal St. George's, as well as Woods. Ordinary enough to list both Mickelson and Woods as friends. With Phil, the connection was obvious, in Amy Mickelson's fight against the disease that claimed Heather Clarke's life.

With Woods, Clarke said, grinning, "Similar build, similar color, similar stature."

When the laughter stopped, he said, "Beneath all the stuff that's happened, self-inflicted or otherwise, he's a really good kid, a man, beneath everything. He has been a tremendous friend to me, and there's a real good side to Tiger Woods that nobody unfortunately ever gets to see."

It was evidence of loyalty and compassion. It was a generous outreach by a man who knows we are all fallible and can only try to atone for our mistakes.

In Clarke's normal, good-guy way, it also was Dazza-ling.

On Twitter: @LivyPD

Cleveland Indians P.M. links: Kid Carrasco versus the aging knuckleballer who chases 200 wins

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Indians' Carlos Carraco tries to revert to mid-season form. Boston's Tim Wakefield, 45, is near a milestone.

carlos-carrasco.jpgThe Indians' Carlos Carrasco faces one of baseball's toughest lineups tonight when he pitches against the Boston Red Sox.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Indians are three games behind the first-place Detroit Tigers in the AL Central Division as they go into tonight's game at Boston against the Red Sox.

It's the most games the Tribe has been out of the top spot all season.

The Indians will start right-hander Carlos Carrasco (8-9, 4.67), who is facing a six-game suspension and a fine for throwing at Kansas City's Billy Butler in his last outing, and will try to halt a personal slump and get the Indians headed back toward the Tigers.

Tim Wakefield (6-4, 5.06), the 45-year-old knuckleballer, takes the mound for Boston. Wakefield has 199 major league wins.

Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Indians coverage includes beat writer Paul Hoynes' Cleveland Indians daily briefing, with an update on injured outfielder Shin-Soo Choo; Indians Insider, his Indians Chatter and his game story on the Indians' 3-2 loss to the Red Sox on Tuesday night. Also, columnist Terry Pluto's thoughts on the Indians' trade for star pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez, and an edition of Cleveland Indians Memories.

On cleveland..com, a preview of tonight's Indians-Red Sox game by Jeff Mezydlo for STATS and the Associated Press.

Indians links

Indians notes by Jason Mastrodonato on MLB.com, beginning with second baseman Asdrubal Cabrera's power hitting.

Tony Lastoria of Indians Prospect Insider writes about catcher Carlos Santana.

Asdrubal Cabreera leads the Indians offense. By Sheldon Ocker of the Akron Beacon Journal.

A game preview from the Boston standpoint, by Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe.

Carlos Carrasco plans to drop the appeal of his suspension, and other Indians notes, by the Akron Beacon Journal's Sheldon Ocker.

Starter Erik Bedard will make his Red Sox debut on Thursday night against the Indians. Get an idea of what the Tribe will be up against, as the Boston Herald's Michael Silverman writes about the veteran left-hander.

Bubba Smith, famed pass-rushing defensive end, dies at age 66

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Smith, who also had a successful acting career, was the top overall pick in the 1967 draft, by the Baltimore Colts, after a sensational career at Michigan State that led to his College Hall of Fame berth.

bubba-smith.jpgBubba Smith as a Baltimore Colts rookie in 1967.

LOS ANGELES -- Former NFL defensive star Bubba Smith, who found a successful second career as an actor, died Wednesday in Los Angeles at age 66.

Los Angeles County coroner's spokesman Ed Winter said Smith was found dead at his Baldwin Hills home. Winter said he didn't know the circumstances or cause of death.

Police spokesman Richard French added the death does not appear to be suspicious.

The top overall pick in the 1967 draft after a sensational career at Michigan State, Smith spent five seasons with the Baltimore Colts and two seasons each with Oakland and Houston. He won the 1971 Super Bowl with the Colts.

One of the most feared defensive ends in the game, Smith often drew two blockers, yet was effective enough to make two Pro Bowls and one All-Pro team. His best work actually came in college, and Smith was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.

Smith played for his father, Willie Ray Smith, in Beaumont, Texas, before heading to Michigan State, where he was an All-American in 1966.

As an actor his most memorable role was playing Moses Hightower, the soft-spoken officer in the "Police Academy" series. He also appeared in such television series as "Good Times," "Charlie's Angels," and "Half Nelson," and was a regular in the ground-breaking Miller Lite commercials featuring retired players.

 

Rory McIlroy's likely full-time return to 2012 PGA Tour highlights Bridgestone Invitational's top pairing Thursday

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At approximately 9:50 a.m. on Thursday, the most glamorous pairing in the 2011 World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational will go off the 10th tee. Watch video

mcilroy-practice-firestone-vert-jk.jpgView full sizeRory McIlory opened some eyes on Wednesday when he said he would likely rejoin the PGA Tour on a full-time basis in 2012. "You have your favorite events and most of my favorite events seem to be on this side of the pond," he said before Thursday's opening round of the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.

AKRON, Ohio -- The earth might stand still for a few minutes Thursday.

At least the earth on which the South Course of Firestone Country Club sits.

At approximately 9:50 a.m., the most glamorous pairing in the 2011 World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational will go off the 10th tee, beginning the chase for a $1.4 million paycheck.

With pardons to the twosomes of Tiger Woods and Darren Clarke, Rickie Fowler and young Italian Matteo Manassero and top-ranked Luke Donald and reigning Masters champion Charl Schwartzel, the most stylish and sexy pairing over the first two rounds is defending champion Hunter Mahan and reigning U.S. Open champ Rory McIlroy.

Are they the most talented twosome in the field of 76? Probably not.

Are they the most decorated? No. The most feared? Not really.

But, what they have is star power and with the PGA Tour's biggest star, Tiger Woods, trying to emerge from a period of cloudiness, the Mahan-McIlroy matchup is one to watch.

Mahan, 29, was in seventh place entering last year's final round and shot a record-setting 6-under 64, the lowest final round by a winner since the Bridgestone became a WGC event in 1999. His final-round comeback was the largest in tournament history.

McIlroy was one of just two players to post four rounds in the 60s in tying for ninth last year but zoomed into prominence when he shot a second-round 66 and went on to win this year's U.S. Open by a stunning eight shots. Performances such as those just don't happen regularly. Not at Firestone and not in the U.S. Open.

McIlroy dropped a mini-bombshell on Wednesday when he said he was seriously considering a return to the PGA Tour. The 22-year-old from Holywood, Northern Ireland, currently ranked fourth in the world, gave up his Tour card during the off-season, much to the Tour's disappointment. That limited his playing time in the U.S.

"I spoke to a couple of guys from the PGA Tour today and I'm leaning towards taking my card up again, definitely," said McIlroy, who also won the 2010 Wells Fargo Championship and the 2009 Dubai Desert Classic. "I feel as if I play my best golf over here. I'm very comfortable in this country."

So comfortable, in fact, that he plans on house-hunting in Florida -- where else? -- after next week's PGA Championship in Atlanta.

McIlroy caught flack for blasting the weather conditions during British Open when he posted three out of four rounds over par and was out of contention on Saturday. When asked if it was the reaction to his comments that sparked his interest in returning, McIlroy laughed.

mahan-vert-prac-firestone-2011-jk.jpgView full size"Last year was funny," said defending Bridgestone champion Hunter Mahan. "I really didn't play very consistently but I had two wins. And this year I've been much more consistent and have [seven] top 10s but haven't had any wins."

"No, the weather," he said. "I feel as if my game really suits playing courses over here. I love Quail Hollow, Memorial, Akron. You have the [WGC-Accenture] Match Play, Honda, Doral, the Masters. You have your favorite events and most of my favorite events seem to be on this side of the pond. And, my game suits it over here."

Andy Pazder, PGA Tour chief of operations, said McIlroy would be eligible to return to the Tour if he applies for membership with 30 days after the Children's Miracle Network Classic in October, the final official money event of the season.

"If it works out that he's rejoining the PGA Tour, obviously we're ecstatic about that," said Pazder. "An immense talent and a personable young man, he'd be an asset for us, no question."

Did someone mention star power? McIlroy is not afraid to speak his mind, but realizes he has to find a more subtle method. He was involved in a minor brouhaha in Ireland when he got into a hissing contest via Twitter with American Jay Townsend, who criticized McIlroy's play during the Irish Open on the BBC.

McIlroy told Townsend to "shut up" and called him "a failed golfer."

"The whole Twitter thing was unfortunate," McIlroy said Wednesday. "I was going through my Twitter and saw the comments and just responded. That's the world we live in these days; everything is instant and everything is in the public domain. Maybe I'll think about things a little more carefully the next time."

If McIlroy rejoins the Tour, he would be required to play 15 tournaments or more next year in the U.S.

Adding to McIlroy's image is his life away from the course. He recently has been romantically linked to Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki, the world's top-ranked female tennis player. He remains humble, downplaying comparisons to Woods and Jack Nicklaus.

"I've never paid attention to the comparisons or potential, or whatever, they say," he said. "Whether it be Tiger's 14 [major wins] or Jack's 18 or whatever. All I'm doing is looking for my second major and my fourth career win. That's all I can say about that."

Mahan, from Los Angeles, said he has learned from last year when he won more than $3 million.

"I've learned not to have expectations about how you play," he said. "Last year was funny. I really didn't play very consistently but I had two wins. And this year I've been much more consistent and have [seven] top 10s but haven't had any wins."

Still, he remains one the bright American stars under the age of 30 and recently teamed with Fowler, Ben Crane and Bubba Watson to film a video called "The Golf Boys." It was kind of a spoof on the Chicago Bears' 1984 Super Bowl Shuffle except a lot funnier.

"We were just trying to have a good time and the video definitely did that," Mahan said.

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