Former Masters champion provides a quick peek behind the scenes on tour.

View full sizeAP fileZach Johnson is a voracious sports fan off the course.

Bob Migra

Special to The Plain Dealer

AKRON, Ohio -- Zach Johnson finished tied for sixth in the Bridgestone Invitational following Sunday's 2-under 68 for a four-day total of 10 under, his best finish at Firestone South.

A resident of St. Simons Island, Ga., has won seven times on the PGA tour, including the 2007 Masters.

Born: Feb. 24, 1976, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Ht/Wt: 5-11, 160

Turned pro: 1998

Q: What's your favorite movie?

A: Braveheart

Q: Who is your favorite actor or actress?

A: Robert Downey Jr.

Q: If you were not playing golf, what sport would you be playing?

A: I love soccer. I love tennis. I love basketball. I love to ski. There's not one I could pick.

Q: What was your favorite restaurant during your visit here?

A: Chipotle.

Q: What's your favorite restaurant anywhere?

A: Chipotle.

Q: Are they your sponsor?

A: No. They should be for as much money as I put into that place.

Q: What's your favorite thing to do to kill time after a round?

A: I am a college football and college basketball recruiting junky.

Q: What is your most memorable shot?

A: That last six-footer I just made (for a birdie on the 18th hole).

Q: Other than you, who is the favorite to win the PGA Championship this week?

A: Luke Donald.

Catchers aren't the fastest players on the field, but that didn't stop Lou Marson from scoring from second base on an infield single Saturday night against Texas.

Mike Fuentes, Associated PressCatcher Lou Marson slides safely into home after his daring run from second base Saturday in the seventh inning against Texas. Ranger catcher Yorvit Torreabla is late with the tag.

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Catchers aren't supposed to do what Lou Marson did in the seventh inning Saturday night against the Rangers.

Remember how Texas shortstop Elvis Andrus beat the Indians on Friday? He scored from second base on a infield single by Josh Hamilton to shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera. Cabrera, with two out, threw to first, but his throw was in the dirt and Matt LaPorta had to scoop it.

By that time, Hamilton was belly flopping across the bag and Andrus was just about to do the same at home plate. LaPorta looked back at the first-base umpire to see if Hamilton was out before throwing home. It was too late as the Texas won, 8-7, in 11 innings.

Saturday night, Marson was on second with two out. The Indians were leading, 2-0, when Michael Brantley sent a grounder to third. Michael Young fielded the ball but threw wildly to first.

Marson, who never stopped running after he left second, slid across the plate for a 3-0 lead. The Indians eventually won the game, 7-5.

"I thought I could score or I wouldn't have gone," said Marson. "I just kept running. It was the same exact play that we got beat on. We're just lucky Michael Young threw it off the bag.

"He fielded the ball in front of me. I didn't see him throw it away. I just put my head down and kept running hard."

Who said catchers can't run?

Tonight's lineups:

Indians (56-55): CF Michael Brantley (L), 2B Jason Kipnis (L), SS Asdrubal Cabrera (S), DH Travis Hafner (L), C Carlos Santana (S), (R), RF Kosuke Fukudome (L), 3B Lonnie Chisenhall (L), 1B Shelley Duncan (R), RHP Josh Tomlin (11-5, 4.16).

Lineup notes: Matt LaPorta missed his second straight start Sunday night with a bruised left ankle.  He was hit by a pitch in the first inning Friday by Derek Holland.

Rangers (63-51): 2B Ian Kinsler (R), SS Elvis Andrus (R), LF Josh Hamilton (L), 3B Michael Young (R), RF Nelson Cruz (R), DH Mike Napoli (R), 1B Mitch Moreland (L), C Yorvit Torrealba (R), CF Endy Chavez (L), RHP Colby Lewis (10-8, 4.14).

Him vs. me: Tomlin has never faced the Rangers. Mike Napoli is 1-for-5 with a homer and two RBI against him while as a member of the Angels.

Shelley Duncan is 1-for-3 against Lewis.

Lefty-righty: Lefties are hitting .270 (77-for-285) with 11 homers and righties are hitting .217 (55-for-254) with three homers against Tomlin. The Rangers had only three lefties in the lineup.

Lefties are hitting .290 (80-for-276) with 15 homers and righties are hitting .197 (51-for-259) with 12 homers against righties. The Indians lineup had six lefties and two switch-hitters.

Quote of the day: "Greaseball, greaseball, greaseball, that's all I throw (Rod Carew), and he still hits them. He's the only player in baseball who consistently hits my grease. He sees the ball so well, I guess he can pick out the dry side," Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry talking about facing his fellow Hall of Famer while doctoring the baseball. Perry made stops in Cleveland and Texas.

Umpires: H D.J. Reyburn, 1B Angel Campos, 2B Jim Wolf, 3B Derryl Cousins. Cousins is the crew chief.

Next: Indians are off on Monday before the Tigers come to down for a three-game series starting Tuesday.

As unpredictable as his game was, Woods said later he never doubted himself this week, that he just kept plodding through it.

View full sizeJohn Kuntz, The Plain DealerThere was plenty of frustration for Tiger Woods during his four days at Firestone's South Course, but he left Akron believing his return to the PGA Tour had gone well. "Absolutely encouraged," he said after Sunday's round. "I hadn't played. I mean, this is my first tournament since, what, April, so it's been a while."

AKRON, Ohio -- Tiger Woods, plagued by an inconsistent final round to conclude a ho-hum test for next week's PGA Championship, was sliding out of Akron on Sunday after barely making a whimper.

His drive off 16 left him way right, staring through huge oak trees at the longest fairway on Firestone's South Course. Engulfed by a gallery more worthy of a front-runner than a non-contender, Woods uncoiled a nothing-to-lose second shot that landed 74 yards from the pin to set up his second straight birdie. His fans went wild.

"That was something, there!" gushed Joe Tucker of Cleveland, disbelieving his eyes.

"Teach me that shot!" begged Tucker's brother-in-law Kerry Conway of Euclid.

As unpredictable as his game was, Woods said later he never doubted himself throughout the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational this week, that he just kept plodding through it. Plodding like a Clydesdale instead of the sleek thoroughbred who once dominated the sport and this tournament.

But after dropping his third shot on the par-5 16th within four feet of the hole, Woods followed with another birdie on 17 and nearly a fourth straight on 18 that energized him and the crowd.

"PGA, Tiger!" yelled a fan, already dialed into next week. The flurry, which salvaged an even score for the day, left Woods upbeat.

"Absolutely encouraged," he said, summarizing the week -- his return to the tour since recovering from Achilles and knee injuries. "I hadn't played. I mean, this is my first tournament since, what, April, so it's been a while."

It showed. Woods began the day at 1 over, but his scores, following a first-round 68, had slipped as the week unfurled.

His final round started well. Paired with South African Hennie Otto, who tied for 29th at 1 under, Woods was finding fairways where he hadn't the day before, scoring birdies on the second and fifth holes. Then his driver stopped cooperating. After missing his first fairway on No. 6, his second shot from the rough flew into a trap. Then his wedge betrayed him.

He wound up with a double bogey on that hole, then bogeyed eight, 10 and 13, prompting muffled chants of "Stev-ie, Stev-ie, Stev-ie" from a fan tweaking Woods' performance after his breakup with long-time caddie Steve Williams, who now works for Bridgestone champion Adam Scott.

"I don't think he can play well without Stevie," said Paul Straniak of Warren. "Stevie's his crutch."

By 14, Woods had slipped to 4 over for the tournament.

"I just completely lost it there and got it back at the end," he said. "You know, I had it in spurts this week. I hit it really well, and then I'd lose it and get it back."

Woods will not only have to find it, but keep it if he expects to contend for the PGA next week at the Atlanta Athletic Club and a $1.35 million winner's share. Woods started Sunday tied for 38th. Even with the late rush, he finished tied for 37th.

"I think he's still a little rusty," said Woods fan Maria Hall of Tyler, Texas, "but he's getting there."

Despite insisting before the tournament he was playing to win it, Woods, who has won here seven times, measured progress in just competing again.

"At home, playing money games with my buddies is just not quite the same," he said. "Being out here and being forced to have to post a score, hit shots, that's a different deal."

At Bridgestone, his tee shots were unpredictable. His putter was inconsistent. Brilliance flashed, then vanished just as quickly.

"Like a pitcher who's lost his fastball," said one fan.

His gallery is still the biggest on the tour. It snaked over the rolling course like a slow human river. He still moves the needle.

But for Woods, it's all a different deal heading into Atlanta next week.

Dixon got himself back into the mix for the IndyCar Series championship with a clean run from start to finish.

View full sizeTom E. Puskar, Associated PressScott Dixon sits in his car as his team pushes it into victory lane after Dixon won the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course on Sunday.

LEXINGTON, Ohio -- Scott Dixon got himself back into the mix for the IndyCar Series championship with a clean run from start to finish to win the Honda Indy 200 Sunday afternoon in front of a steamy yet packed crowd at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

"He was in a different zip code," points leader and teammate Dario Franchitti said. "He deserved to win it. I got a good restart, too good, because he got behind and just drafted me. He got alongside before I got into the braking zone. The corner was his already. Then off he went. From then on, I was just protecting position."

It was a fitting 50th anniversary race at the rustic facility, led by pole-sitter Dixon, who had a fast qualifying lap of 119.405 mph. He won by a comfortable 7.6 seconds over Franchitti with Ryan Hunter-Reay finishing third. With six races remaining in the season Franchitti (428) sits first in the points chase with Will Power (366) second and Dixon (335) third.

"Good points day for us," Franchitti said.

• Final results from Mid-Ohio

Clearly, the job for Franchitti was to finish on the podium as he didn't really fight his teammate for the lead coming out of the last yellow caution period of the race. At that point, Franchitti was leading with Dixon on his tail.

"I wanted to get back to the front," Dixon said of the clean pass he made on Franchitti. "He didn't fight us too hard into the corner."

It marked Dixon's third career victory at Mid-Ohio but his first win of the season. He is the sixth driver in the series to win a race this year.

Sad stories will be told by Graham Rahal, who started sixth, was stung by the tight pit situation, then compounded that misfortune by stalling before getting out. Then, late in the race, Rahal brought out the last yellow when he and Danica Patrick touched wheels, sending Rahal into the grass where he stalled again. Rahal finished two laps down in 24th.

Rookie James Hinchcliffe, bumped from seventh on the grid to the back of the pack on the first lap, caught a break with a timely yellow that put him in the lead, then made a late-race miscue that sent him off track. He finished 20th.

"I made a rookie mistake," Hinchcliffe said. "One of the tough things about being a rookie is when you make a mistake, it is very public. After the day we had, it was unfortunate. The car was obviously phenomenal."

A clean start to the race saw no change among the top six drivers through lap 22, when a full course yellow stopped the parade and sent drivers to the pits.

Pit decorum would clearly be a key element in the race. Mid-Ohio not only has one of the narrowest pit lanes on the circuit, with 27 cars in the field the pit boxes were literally nose to tail.

The first pit stop was relatively clean with no contact, but Rahal's pit stop was indicative of most. Just as he finished taking service and was set to get on the gas, his team suddenly held him up to let the car in the pit ahead of him pull in. That cost Rahal several extra seconds of pit time.

The leaders had no such problems.

"Let's be honest," Franchitti said. "Scott had one of those days. He deserved to win it."

So that's why: Danica Patrick has yet to declare that her future is going to be in NASCAR, but here's a pretty good clue. The three laps she led yesterday at Mid-Ohio were her first laps in the lead since Indy. Both times she rotated to the point during pit stops.

But here's the clincher: Mid-Ohio marked the first time since 2007, when she was in front for nine laps at Detroit's Belle Isle, she has led on a road course. As more road and street circuits became part of the IndyCar schedule, the prospects for Patrick, who is better on ovals, to get her second career win decreased.

Whew! Before the afternoon clouds and rain came, the track was a sizzler. It was 84 degrees under clear skies at the start of the race with 59 percent humidity and a track temperature of 127 degrees.

Test is on: While the machine is still under wraps, IndyCar officials did confirm both the prototype Dallara for the 2012 season and the driver, two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon, had arrived at Mid-Ohio before the race. Officials also hinted that this means the "private" test of the car, set for Monday and Tuesday at Mid-Ohio, is still on as scheduled.

One of the PGA Tour's original young guns is now a 30-year-old veteran ... who admires from the latest crop of talent is doing.

View full sizeAP fileAaron Baddeley didn't get to reprise his victory dance from last February's Northern Trust Open title on Sunday, but the veteran from Australia charged up the final-day leaderboard with a 5-under 65 that earned him an 11th-place finish at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.

Bob Migra

Special to The Plain Dealer

AKRON, Ohio -- Does anyone remember "Badds?"

That was the image of Australian Aaron Baddeley back in 2003 when he was a young-gun rock star on the PGA tour. "Badds" was what a bevy of beautiful young women were chanting as they drove off with him in the back of a convertible in a commercial for McGregor. He was every father's nightmare: Young, devilishly handsome, with long, wild hair.

Now 30, Baddeley can look back on those days for some great memories and some minor regrets. The memories start with his first trip to the U.S. to play in the Masters when he was 19.

"I had just won the Australian Open as an amateur and I got an invite to the Masters and some other U.S. tour events," said Baddeley, who tied winner Adam Scott and Lee Westwood for Sunday's low round with a 65 at the Bridgestone Invitational. That allowed him to tie for 11th at 8-under 272 and take home $117,333.

"I was definitely living my dreams," he said. "An invite to play Augusta? That was crazy. That's a tournament I was watching on TV my whole life. It was unbelievable playing with all the guys I grew up watching on TV, with Brad Faxon, Tiger Woods, Mark O'Meara, V.J. Singh."

It wasn't long before Baddeley graduated from the Nationwide Tour and earned a spot on the PGA Tour. The endorsements soon followed. Enter the regrets. Baddeley said the "Badds" image really wasn't him and if he had it to do over, he probably would pass on that kind of commercial.

Now the young guns are getting younger. There are more of them and they are more successful than ever. Four finished ahead of Baddeley at Firestone: Rickie Fowler (22), Jason Day (23), Ryo Ishikawa (19) and Rory McIlroy (22).

"I think it's great for the game, to be honest," Baddeley said. "It used to be an old man's sport. You're getting the young kids into it wanting to play the game, to get out there and hit balls and just have fun. It used to be kind of a country club sport. The access to the game is a lot easier now."

He is not surprised that the brash young players are not intimidated by the established superstars. "I think the game is just going in that direction," he said. "You see other kids doing it and you say if he can do it so can I. It's definitely a snowball effect."

Baddeley has three U.S. wins to his credit, including this year's Northern Trust Open. He has four other international wins, but is still seeking his first major. He said the lack of a major title is not a distraction.

"Everybody is different," Baddeley said. "Some people it would [affect] and other guys like Phil Mickelson I don't think it ever affected him. He just said, 'Hey, I'm getting closer, I'm playing better.' I think that's why Phil has had a great career, because he handled that adversity so well."

Who knows, as well as Baddeley played Sunday, maybe the PGA Championship could be the first major for the "old guy."

Bob Migra is a freelance writer in Westlake.

Here's what we know and don't know, by position group, right now as OSU football begins preparations for the 2011 season.

View full sizeMarvin Fong, The Plain DealerJordan Hall has a chance to emerge as a featured running back for the Buckeyes while Dan Herron serves his five-game suspension.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State's freshmen reported for preseason camp Saturday, with the veterans arriving Sunday and practice beginning Monday. After losing seven defensive starters, four offensive starters including Terrelle Pryor, and with three other offensive starters suspended for the first five games, the camp for first-year coach Luke Fickell and 105 players includes a lot of questions.

Here's what we know and don't know, by position group, right now.

Quarterbacks

Known: The starter won't be departed three-year starter Terrelle Pryor. Whoever it is -- among senior Joe Bauserman, sophomore Kenny Guiton, redshirt freshman Taylor Graham and freshman Braxton Miller -- won't have thrown more than 37 career passes. Center Mike Brewster said in his mind he has a good idea of who the quarterback will be, but didn't identify him. Fickell might have less of an idea, because he admits he wasn't watching that battle closely in the spring, when he was still coaching linebackers. But he's been watching film.

Unknown: Everything else. Whether Miller, who has the most talent, most hype and is probably the most likely candidate, will be ready. "I hope so," Fickell said. "I think he has a lot of similar qualities to [Pryor] in what he can do as a football player."

Running backs

Known: There is great depth. Senior Dan Herron is suspended for the first five games, but with junior Jordan Hall, sophomore Jaamal Berry, sophomore Carlos Hyde and true freshman Rod Smith, he may not be missed. Fullback Zach Boren may be the most complete football player among the backs, and though he won't carry the ball, he needs to be on the field a good amount.

Unknown: How the carries will shake out. Who among the young backs is ready to handle the responsibilities beyond just carrying the ball. If Smith, a bowl practice star, can emerge as the big back the Buckeyes love. Whether Berry, a friend of Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson from their high school days in Florida, is ready to explode. "Both of us got that electricity," Robinson said. "He can be an impact player."

Receivers

Known: Senior DeVier Posey is the only option with real experience, and he's suspended for the first five games. Sophomore Corey "Philly" Brown is fast, but still young. Given the inexperience, an incoming freshman like Devin Smith should have a shot to earn playing time.

Unknown: Whether the fact Fickell mentioned Brown and Verlon Reed last week means they're the next two behind Posey. If answers might come from other positions, like putting Hall in the slot or splitting tight end Jake Stoneburner out wide.

Offensive line

Known: Brewster is an All-American candidate. Left tackle Mike Adams is nearly at that level but is suspended for the first five games. Right tackle J.B. Shugarts believes his foot problems of last year are behind him. Sophomore Andrew Norwell will fill in at left tackle while Adams is out. The top seven are solid and then there's a major dropoff, and a few injuries could really hurt.

Unknown: Exactly how the guards will shake out, though Jack Mewhort is the assumption at left guard, with Marcus Hall and Corey Linsley at right guard. How often the Buckeyes might go to two tight ends -- Stoneburner and blocking tight end Reid Fragel are good options, and incoming freshman Jeff Heuerman has opened eyes.

View full sizeJeff Hinckley, Columbus DispatchLinebacker Andrew Sweat (42) figures to be the steady foundation of the Buckeyes' defense as some younger players get acclimated to big-time college football.

Defensive line

Known: Though Cameron Heyward is hard to replace, Nathan Williams and John Simon are among the best in the Big Ten. Johnathan Hankins intrigues everyone, and Adam Bellamy and Garrett Goebel look ready to contribute in major ways.

Unknown: How a very good group of true freshmen -- Joel Hale, Michael Bennett, Chase Farris, Kenny Hayes and Steve Miller -- could work into the usual eight-man rotation, though a couple should have to redshirt.

Linebackers

Known: Senior Andrew Sweat could start at any position, but will hold down the weakside. Etienne Sabino and Storm Klein are solid options in the middle. The one-year suspension of Dorian Bell and transfer of Jonathan Newsome opens holes in the depth chart.

Unknown: How true freshman Curtis Grant fits in, but spot work on the strongside could be a possibility. "One of the things we might lack in the linebacker area is some of that size, and he would give you some size," Fickell said. "But mental capacity is always key for young guys." How much sixth-year senior Tyler Moeller, one of the Buckeyes' best 11 defenders, could work in some at the strongside to stay on the field rather than being only the star defender in the nickel defense.

Secondary

Known: Junior Travis Howard will be the top cornerback and looks ready for a breakout year. Fickell likes the growth of junior safety Orhian Johnson, picking him as one of the players who represented the Buckeyes at the Big Ten meetings in Chicago. There's some talent and depth but a lot of questions.

Unknown: How potential starting safeties Johnson, C.J. Barnett (back after tearing his ACL early last season), Christian Bryant, Corey Brown (also back from injury) and others will battle it out. Whether someone like Bryant could slide to the second corner spot -- in the mix with Dominic Clarke, Dionte Allen and Bradley Roby -- if it's too crowded at safety.

Ohio State sophomore defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins is like the 2011 Buckeyes as a whole -- filled with questions and potential.

View full sizeMarvin Fong, The Plain DealerJohnathan Hankins is the kind of pocket-exploding defensive tackle often seen in the SEC, but seldom on a Big Ten roster. "He played about 15 snaps a game last year," said head coach Luke Fickell, "and we're going to need a lot more from him."

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State teammates shake their heads and smile when they think about what sophomore defensive lineman Johnathan Hankins could do this season. He's massive, he's explosive, he's filled with potential, he's still a bit of a question mark and he's unlike anything the Buckeyes have seen in a while.

Basically, he stands for everything the 2011 Buckeyes are facing as a team as well.

Ohio State reports for preseason camp this weekend -- the freshman did on Saturday, the upperclassmen checked into the team hotel Sunday  -- and kicks off practice on Monday. The Buckeyes are replacing 11 starters, including seven on defense and a quarterback on offense, facing the five-game suspensions of three other offensive starters and adjusting to new coach Luke Fickell, who this week is still finalizing logistics such as how he'll have the team select captains and how practice will be run.

There's reason to wonder and to worry, and reason for excitement and expectations.

Just like with Hankins, a second-year player from Dearborn Heights, Mich.

"He's probably a guy who showed as much flash as anyone at times last year and through the spring," Fickell said. "He played about 15 snaps a game last year, and we're going to need a lot more from him."

Having dropped his weight to around 335 pounds, according to Fickell, Hankins is the kind of pocket-exploding defensive tackle the Southeastern Conference has hoarded in recent years -- but who hasn't been seen much on the OSU roster. Yet Hankins might end up playing on the edge of the defensive line a fair amount, too, because Fickell thinks junior Garrett Goebel, a potential starter, plays his best football at nose tackle.

View full sizeMarvin Fong, The Plain DealerHankins flashed the pass-rushing skills that intrigue Buckeyes coaches in brief appearances in 2010 -- as Eastern Michigan QB Alex Gillett learned on this play.

"So does that mean you have to move Johnathan outside a little bit more so you can get your four best [defensive linemen] in there?" Fickell asked. "That's what we need to find out in camp."

That's just one thing, among many. There isn't a single position group on either side of the ball where the Buckeyes can say 'yes, we're set,' but the defensive line may offer as many reasons for hope as any group. Add Adam Bellamy to John Simon, Nathan Williams, Hankins and Goebel and Ohio State has a solid first five ahead of an intriguing group of redshirt and true freshmen.

Hankins wasn't the highest-touted recruit in the 2010 class, but he contributed as much as any true freshman a year ago. Now he's something for the younger Buckeyes to aspire to. The largest Buckeye is offensive lineman Chris Carter from John F. Kennedy High School, an offensive lineman that Fickell said gained 11 pounds to reach 390 pounds despite doing summer conditioning with the Buckeyes. Carter himself said he's now down to about 375.

"Big Hank used to be Big Hank, but now you look at him and say, 'Is Hank losing weight or is he just standing next to Chris Carter?'" Fickell said.

It's easy to be big. It's more difficult to be big and light on your feet, and that's the territory Hankins is trying to occupy.

"He takes on double teams and he makes plays," linebacker Andrew Sweat said. "Linebackers are very appreciative of that."

Soon Hankins may have more who appreciate him.

Given the chance to gloat, Steve Williams, Tiger Woods' fired caddie, found his tongue, sports columnist Bud Shaw writes.

View full sizeJohn Kuntz, The Plain DealerMore than happy to remind everyone that he had "145 victories," Steve Williams (left) made certain that he was as much of the story of Sunday's final round of the Bridgestone Invitational as was the actual winner -- Williams' golfer -- Adam Scott. "Obviously I'm very confident," Williams said after Scott's final putt. "I've always backed myself."

AKRON, Ohio -- Good thing there was no pond close by the 18th green Sunday, or Stevie Williams might've poured champagne over his head, jumped in hand-in-hand with himself, inflated a pool float and sipped umbrella drinks late into the night.

Instead, Williams listened to the gallery chant his name on his walk up the fairway next to ... who was it, again? ... oh yeah, Adam Scott. Then Williams proclaimed it this Bridgestone Invitational his greatest win ever.

Is this a good place to remind you Steve Williams only carried Scott's bag?

Asked if Scott would be OK with the attention pouring out to his caddie Sunday at the Bridgestone Invitational, Tiger Woods' latest ex found a self-serving way to portray his sudden urge to chat up the media.

"I guess caddying for Tiger, I've probably been a bit unfair to the media sometimes," Williams said. "I realize I owe you guys something."

How convenient. With the media providing a convenient platform for Williams to gloat Sunday in an interview session otherwise raw in both its honesty and spite, Williams spilled his guts about Woods firing him in June. He did nothing to hide his personal satisfaction over winning at Firestone (and everywhere else to hear him tell it).

"Obviously it's been well documented I've won 145 golf tournaments," Williams said of the 'intangibles' he brings to his players. "Every single guy that I've caddied for, even guys that I've caddied for just here and there over the years, has won tournaments.

"So I guess when I caddy for someone, it's kind of a reassurance thing that 'Steve knows what it takes to get it done.' Obviously I'm very confident. ... I've always backed myself."

Williams said Woods "short-shrifted" him. (Please Tiger, oh please, short shrift me next.) He certainly couldn't have meant financially. On the conservative side, estimate his winnings at eight percent of Tiger's purses since 1999. Poor Stevie hasn't had to share many hotel rooms to cut his expenses.

Williams was thinking more short-term, as in A.F. (after the fireplug)

"The last two years have been very difficult for myself and my family," Williams said. "And I sort of believe in destiny sometimes."

For Scott, or for him?

You have to give Williams a break on one front. Woods shut so many people out that Williams' claim he knew nothing of Woods' extramarital affairs now seems plausible. That didn't stop critics from sliming Williams as part of a small and complicit entourage. Williams did wait for Woods to get his life and game together. When Woods announced he'd skip the U.S. Open in June, Williams asked permission to caddy for Scott.

Woods says he felt the need for a change and told Williams face-to-face at the AT&T, two weeks after the U.S. Open. Williams said Sunday that was incorrect.

"He just called me up when I asked him to go and caddie for Adam, and he didn't agree with it," said Williams. "I was told on the phone that we need to take a break. In caddie lingo, that means you're fired. Simple as that."

Williams said they did talk face-to-face at the AT&T where "the details of why I was fired were discussed, and that's for my own personal stuff."

So this wasn't full disclosure Sunday, just the part that served Stevie's best interests. His wallet was served well, too. Sunday, Williams made $140,000 caddying for the winner. Woods made $58,500.

I'll give Williams something else, though. At least he didn't try to justify the hyperbole that spilled out of him off the 18th green. He said winning so early as the new man on the bag helped validate him with Scott, even though he'll tell you his work really needs no validation.

Williams pulled no punches with Scott when they decided to team up, telling him his short game wasn't nearly good enough, and that he'd have to commit to a lot of hard work. And here was Scott chipping in on No. 12 for birdie.

In the 18th fairway, with the tournament won, Scott wanted to hit a safe 7-iron. Williams would have none of it, telling him to hit a 6-iron at the pin. Scott nearly holed it and made birdie.

"Obviously we all know his personality in those situations and he's right up for it," Scott said of Williams.

Williams was so up for what transpired at Firestone that he called it his greatest win ever. From the guy who caddied for Greg Norman and Raymond Floyd? The guy who carried the bag for all except one of Tiger Woods' 14 victories in majors?

This was his greatest week in 33 years of caddying? Yep, he said unequivocally.

Stopping just short of adding, "Nah nah nah-nah-nah."

The Indians scratch out as 2-0 lead against Colby Lewis behind Josh Tomlin's six scoreless innings.

ARLINGTON, Texas -- The Indians lead the Rangers, 2-0, Sunday night at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington after six innings. Game time temperature was 102 degrees.

Michael Brantley tripled home Ezequiel Carrera with two out in the fifth for a 2-0 lead. Brantley tripled to right center off Colby Lewis after Carrera, the No.9 hitter, slapped a single to left.

The Indians took a 1-0 lead in the second on Lonnie Chisenhall's sacrifice fly to deep center. Travis Hafner and Carlos Santana opened the inning with singles. Kosuke Fukudome forced Santana at second on grounder to first, but Hafner advanced to third where he scored on Chisenhall's long out.

Josh Tomlin, making his first ever start against the Rangers, and pitching in his home state of Texas, held the Rangers scoreless on two hits through six innings.

Tomlin is from Whitehouse, Texas, about a hour and a half drive south of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area. Whitehouse has a population of about 5,000 and Tomlin said a good chunk of them would be at the ballpark watching him pitch.

Perhaps that may explain why he walked two batters. Tomlin hasn't walked that many batters in a game since he walked three in his second start of the season on April 10.

Tomlin came into the game having allowed more homers (20) and walks (16) in 140 2/3 innings. He came into the game tied with Oakland's Brandon McCarthy with the fewest walks of any AL starting pitcher with at least 100 innings.

The Indians defense, which has sprung many leaks of late, helped Tomlin out with double plays in the fourth and fifth innings. Asdrubal Cabrera and Jason Kipnis combined on a sweet 6-4-3 double play in the fifth.

Ishikawa, who won his first professional tournament in Japan as an amateur at 15, entered Sunday one shot off the lead.

AKRON, Ohio -- If there were any doubts whether Ryo Ishikawa was a budding star, they might have been answered this week.

Ishikawa, the 19 year old from Japan, made a run at Adam Scott during the weekend, but a final-round 69 left him five shots behind the Bridgestone Invitational champ at 12 under. He was one of five players to shoot four rounds in the 60s.

It's not like Ishikawa was his worst enemy. It's just that Scott played superbly.

"I was able to play well to be at least on the top [of the tournament] for a moment in the first half of the game today," Ishikawa said through an interpreter. "I think the 14th and 15th holes were what separated everything."

Ishikawa, who won his first professional tournament in Japan as an amateur at 15, entered Sunday one shot off the lead. He remained in the hunt until three-putting the par-3 15th for bogey. He finished 1 under for the day, in a tie with Jason Day for fourth.

His finish was worth $332,500 for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. Ishikawa has pledged to donate all his winnings for the entire golf season, plus $1,200 for every birdie and eagle he makes. He had 17 birdies and one eagle this week.

Even Tiger Woods was impressed.

"Give him a decade and this kid is going to be awesome," Woods said. "He putts the eyes out of it. He makes a ton of putts and he usually drives it on a string."

Woods first played with Ishikawa at the 2009 British Open, saying the youngster had just one shot.

"It was just straight up," Woods said. "Now he's trying to bring the ball down and shape it a little bit more."

Outta here: Without elaborating, Woods said family obligations will prevent him from playing in the Wyndham Championship later this month, even if he is still trying to qualify for the FedEx Cup playoffs. Then he said he has plans to go to Asia and Australia.

In the 60s: In 2010, Rory McIlroy and Bo Van Pelt were the only two players able to shoot four rounds in the 60s on the South Course. This year, McIlroy, Ishikawa, Luke Donald, Rickie Fowler and David Toms did it.

Cash out of hand: Nicolas Colsaerts, Tim Clark, Thomas Levet and Ross Fisher, who withdrew from the event because of personal injury or emergency, will have their last-place prize money donated to charity. Peter Senior, who just decided not to play after contending in last week's U.S. Senior Open, will receive no money.

Not exactly a strong finish: Spaniard Pablo Larrazabal should have quit when he was ahead. He started with a 4-under 66 and closed with a 9-over 79.

Family tribute: The Suba family of Lake County gathered at a familiar spot near the 16th green on Sunday as a tribute to Edward Suba Sr., who died June 26. The family surrounded a photo of Suba placed on a chair near the spot where the photo was taken. It was shot by his son, Ed Jr., a photographer for the Akron Beacon-Journal.

"He loved coming here," Suba Jr. said. "He never stopped talking about it."

Writer Bob Migra contributed to this report.

Jimenez shaken when his friend, Juan Nicasio, was hit in the head by a line drive on Friday and underwent surgery Saturday for a broken vertebra.

View full sizeBarry Gutierrez, Associated PressThe sight of former teammate Juan Nicasio motionless on the Colorado pitching mound last Friday was a grim sight for Indians pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez. "As pitchers, we're so close to the hitter, especially when you throw hard," Jimenez said Sunday. "Nicasio throws 95 to 97. When it comes back at you, it's coming even harder. It's crazy."

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Ubaldo Jimenez is friend of Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio, who was hit in the head by a line drive Friday night and underwent a five-hour operation Saturday morning to stabilize a fractured neck vertebra.

Washington's Ian Desmond was the batter who struck Nicasio.

"One of the clubhouse guys sent me a text message saying 'did you see what happened to Nicasio,'" said Jimenez. "Then I saw the video. It was bad.

"He got called up about two months ago. We used to go everywhere together. He's a good guy."

The Indians acquired Jimenez from the Rockies on July 31 for four players, including No.1 picks Alex White and Drew Pomeranz.

"The same scout who signed me, Orlando Hernandez, signed Nicasio," said Jimenez. "The scout called me Saturday. He was at the Nicasio's parents house."

Doctors believe Nicasio may have fractured the vertebra when he twisted his head to avoid the ball or when he fell to the ground and hit his head.

"They don't know how much time it will take for him to recover because this kind of thing has never happened to a baseball player before," said Jimenez.

Getting hit with a line drive in the head is every pitcher's nightmare. "I always think about that, even before I throw the ball," said Jimenez. "After I throw the ball, I always have my glove up in front of my face. Those [hitters] are huge. They get paid a lot of money to hit fastballs.

"As pitchers, we're so close to the hitter, especially when you throw hard. Nicasio throws 95 to 97. When it comes back at you, it's coming even harder. It's crazy."

Not the first time: Rookie second baseman Jason Kipnis hit five homers in his first 13 big-league games. Elias Sports Bureau says the last Indians rookie to do that was Luis Medina, nicknamed Funky Cold Medina by then-hitting coach Charlie Manuel, in September of 1988.

Kipnis' power has not surprised hitting coach Bruce Fields.

"We saw that he at least had gap power as he moved through [Class A] Kinston," said Fields. "Where we really saw it, to me, was in [Class AA] Akron, where he hit some homers. I think that's one of the biggest minor-league parks out there."

Last year, Kipnis combined to hit 16 homers, six at Kinston and 10 at Akron. He hit 12 at Class AAA Columbus this year before getting promoted to Cleveland on July 21.

"He's able to backspin the ball. It's a gift," said Fields. "Especially when you think about his size [5-11, 185 pounds]. He's not a big guy, but he has a gift. He has good hand-eye coordination and he's got an attitude about him. He likes to compete."

The last big-league player to hit five homers in his first 13 big-league games was Taylor Teagarden for the Rangers in 2008.

Ouch: Matt LaPorta has missed the last two starts with a bruised left ankle. He was hit by a Derek Holland pitch in the first inning Friday. He did not take batting practice Saturday because of the swelling, but was available on Sunday.

Manager Manny Acta said LaPorta should be ready to play Tuesday when the Tigers come to Progressive Field for a three-game series.

Decision time: With infielder Jack Hannahan scheduled to rejoin the team Tuesday after taking paternity leave Friday to be with his wife, the Indians will have to create a roster spot. Shelley Duncan, promoted to replace Hannahan, made his third straight start against the Rangers Sunday. He went 3-for-6 with a double, homer and two RBI in the first two games.

"He's given us a lift. That's why we called him up to face those two lefties [Holland and C.J. Wilson]," said Acta.

Asked if Duncan could stay when Hannahan returns, Acta said, "There's a chance of everything. But Hannahan is coming back."

Choo-Choo: Shin-Soo Choo will begin his rehab assignment from a broken left thumb on Monday for the Class A Lake County Captains. He's scheduled to start in right field.

Choo had his thumb examined Saturday by Dr. Thomas Graham and took batting practice with Lake County on Sunday.

Finally: It was over 100 degrees at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington a couple hours before game time on Sunday and outfielder Ezequiel Carrera was signing autographs for fans near the Indians dugout. ... Game-time temperatures for the three games in Arlington -- 105, 106 and 102 degrees.

On Twitter: @hoynsie

Plain Dealer sports writer says a three-game sweep by Detroit would be devastating to Cleveland's chances. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Welcome to today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, hosted by a sleepy Chuck Yarborough.

The Indians suffered a tough 5-3 loss to the Texas Rangers on Sunday night, leaving them four games behind Detroit in the AL Central. Justin Masterson will be on the hill Tuesday night for the Tribe as it opens an important three-game home series against the first-place Tigers.

At this point of the season, which Tribe starting pitcher do you consider to be the ace of the staff? That's the question in today's Starting Blocks poll.

Today's guest is Plain Dealer sports writer Dennis Manoloff, who says that Masterson is his choice as the staff ace. Dman also talks about what's going on with the Tribe bullpen; how important the three-game set against the Tigers is for the Indians; and how important a caddy is, given Steve Williams' comments after Sunday's final round of the Bridgestone Invitational.

SBTV will return Tuesday.

Leonel Angel Coira signed with the Spanish club and will begin training Sept. 6. His favorite player, Lionel Messi, also goes by the name Leo.

Real Madrid logo

MADRID, Spain -- Real Madrid has signed a 7-year-old soccer prodigy from Argentina who goes by the name Leo - just like Lionel Messi.

Leonel Angel Coira signed with the Spanish club and will begin training Sept. 6, Madrid spokesman Juan Tapiador told The Associated Press on Monday.

Coira told the Argentine sports daily Ole last week that his idol is Messi, the Barcelona forward who is also Argentine and goes by the name Leo. Coira said he prefers to pass rather than score. He already has a Facebook page featuring photos of his visit to Real Madrid.

Madrid reportedly made the push to sign Coira because Spanish league rival Atletico Madrid was also pursuing the youngster.

Barcelona signed Messi from the Argentine club Newell's Old Boys as a teenager and he has gone on to win the World Player of the Year award two times. He also has helped Barcelona win 15 trophies, including three Champions League titles and five Spanish league championships.

Benard thought he needed to bulk up to move to defensive end, but the Browns liked him at his previous weight to maintain his quickness.

APMarcus Benard, left, hands off Gabriel Davis, 3, to dad, Ryan Davis after practice at the NFL football team's training camp last week in Berea.

BEREA -- Observations from Browns training camp practice ...

• Coaches were surprised to see Marcus Benard come to camp about 25 pounds heavier than his 2010 playing weight of 256.

Coach Pat Shurmur made a point of saying after Monday's practice that Benard needs to get in better condition. Benard doesn't disagree. He said adding the weight was his idea when he learned the club intended to move him from outside linebacker to end in the new 4-3 defense. The coaches love Benard's quickness and feel the added weight cancels it. Chalk this one up to the owners lockout, which halted all communication between coaches and players for over four months.

• WILL linebacker Chris Gocong had to leave practice after suffering a stinger, but it's not serious. In his place came Kaluka Maiava, the fourth-round pick from 2009 who spent about all of last year rehabbing a torn knee ligament. The injury happened in the second week, and Maiava called it "a long, long offseason" for him. Maiva's happy to be back on the field. He's also on most special teams.

• Speaking of special teams, it's becoming evident that the Browns are not spending the same amount of time running down on kicks and punts as the previous regime. Coaches are a little sensitive about suggestions that the special teams don't get worked as hard. Ray Ventrone said a lot of the work is done in the afternoon walk-through and there isn't the necessity "to run down six times in a row on kickoffs."

• Inconsistency is probably going to plague rookie receiver Greg Little until he completely knocks off the rust from a year of inactivity at North Carolina. After a good showing at Saturday's practice at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Little had three drops today.

• Receiver Mohamed Massaquoi has a small chip fracture on his left foot, said a source. He's still in a cast, but President Mike Holmgren told SportsTime Ohio that the team was hoping to get Massaquoi back on the field next week. Holmgren also referred to Massaquoi as the team's No. 1 receiver.

• Sitting out were running back Montario Hardesty (knee), defensive back Ramzee Robinson (groin) and Massaquoi. Cornerback Joe Haden and tight end Jordan Cameron were back in action.

• Quarterbacks and the wideouts have to work on sideline awareness. A lot of the sideline passes are being caught -- or are falling -- out of bounds.

• On the Browns' first goal-line play today, right guard Shawn Lauvao got the better of defensive tackle Phil Taylor and Peyton Hillis plunged over for the touchdown. Later in the series, No. 4 tight end Alex Smith had two sliding catches.

Browns feel they can make plays down the field with veteran TE Ben Watson and athletes Evan Moore and Jordan Cameron. Plus, Phil Taylor, Owen Marecic, Shawn Lauvao, Peyton Hillis, Pat Shurmur, etc.

Lisa DeJong, The Plain DealerTight end Ben Watson (right), here shown during training camp, should again be an intergral part of the Browns offense.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Much has been made, for good reason, about the Cleveland Browns' lack of proven playmakers at wide receiver.

The Browns' lack of downfield threats in 2010 allowed opposing defenses to crowd the line of scrimmage, making running back Peyton Hillis' big season all the more remarkable.

Cleveland quarterback Colt McCoy will, though, have some options this season. Hillis is an excellent pass receiver out of the backfield, as is running back Brandon Jackson, signed last week as an unrestricted free agent. Jackson was a solid contributor for the Green Bay Packers' Super Bowl championship team last season.

It's at tight end, though, where the Browns might have the most potential to create some big plays.

Veteran Ben Watson led Cleveland with 68 receptions for 763 yards last season. Evan Moore showed the ability to make plays downfield.  

Now, add to the equation fourth-round draft pick Jordan Cameron, a former college basketball standout who is just learning the complexities of football -- but showing exciting promise during the process.

The Browns might keep four tight ends, and if so, veteran Alex Smith would likely be in the fold, too.

The specific talents owned by the Browns' tight ends might also be a splendid fit for the team's new offensive system.

Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository notes some of the history of Browns' tight ends, and before listing qualities of the current players, he writes: 

Watson is a more accomplished NFL player by a moon shot than any wide receiver on the roster.

And three other tight ends provide great intrigue as to how they might blossom in the passer-friendly West Coast Offense.

Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Browns coverage includes Tony Grossi's training camp observations; PD Twitter updates from training camp in Berea; Mary Kay Cabot's report on Colt McCoy being pleased with the progress made by the offense; and much more. 

The Browns open their preseason schedule on Saturday night at Browns Stadium against the Packers. 

Watch for Moore

Scott Petrak writes about Evan Moore for the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram and Medina County Gazette:

At 6-foot-6, he’s taller than most tight ends. He also runs better and has outstanding hands. He’s 26 years old and has played just 17 NFL games, so he should be entering his prime.

“He’s a big target. He runs extremely well,” coach Pat Shurmur said. “We’re hopeful he can be a tough matchup for the linebacker and the safety.

“He catches the ball when you throw it to him. Those are good attributes for a receiver.”

Moore caught 16 passes in 2010 for a team-best 20.1-yard average and a touchdown. He missed the final four games with a hip injury, then had a sports hernia fixed in the spring.

Talkin' Browns

The Browns hope Tony Pashos and Shawn Lauvao will stabilize the right side of the offensive line. By Jeff Schudel for the News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal. 

James Walker of ESPN.com gives his opinions on the Browns offense and rookie defensive tackle Phil Taylor.

A story on Browns rookie fullback Owen Marecic, by Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Peyton Hillis likes the West Coast offense, Daniel Wolf writes for the National Football Authority.

Coach Pat Shurmur's easy-going demeanor might change during the regular season, Mike McLain writes for the Warren Tribune Chronicle.

Connections between the Browns and their AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals. By Don Delco for Scout.com's Orange and Brown Report.

James Walker answers readers' questions about the Browns and the AFC North for ESPN.com.

"I expect to be back at practice soon. I'm doing fine; tell everyone not to worry about me.," said Paterno, who collided with a player during Sunday's practice.

Associated PressPenn State coach Joe Paterno walked away from the collision he had with a player during Sunday's practice, the school has said.

STATE COLLEGE, Pennsylvania -- Penn State says coach Joe Paterno is undergoing medical tests on his right arm and hip at a hospital after a player ran into him during practice on Sunday.

The school announced Monday that Paterno walked away from the collision with a receiver who was running a route.

The 84-year-old Paterno said in a statement: "I expect to be back at practice soon. I'm doing fine; tell everyone not to worry about me."

Dr. Wayne Sebastianelli, Penn State director of athletic medicine, said in a statement that it doesn't appear surgery will be required.

Paterno conducted Monday morning's coaches meeting by phone from the hospital, according to Penn State.

Football media day, originally scheduled for Thursday, was postponed until Aug. 15.

Williams, 34, will play behind starter Ray Rice.

Associated PressRicky Williams, shown here with the Miami Dolphins last season, has 9,569 rushing yards during his NFL career.

OWINGS MILLS, Maryland -- The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to terms with veteran running back Ricky Williams.

The Ravens announced the deal on Monday, pending Williams passing a physical Tuesday.

Williams played for the Miami Dolphins last season. The 34-year-old split time with Ronnie Brown in Miami and averaged 4.2 yards per carry. He rushed for 673 yards and scored two touchdowns.

With the Ravens, Williams will play behind starter Ray Rice.

Williams has rushed for 9,569 career yards and 68 touchdowns, recording 325 receptions for 2,523 yards and eight touchdowns.

"I personally don't have a problem with the Browns' approach. To win in the AFC North, you have win in the trenches, which the Browns never seem to do on a regular basis. Phil Taylor helps this." - ldcapp

View full sizeLisa DeJong | The Plain DealerPhil Taylor should help fill some holes up front for the Browns defense.

In response to the story What are the Cleveland Browns doing with their salary cap room? Hey, Tony!, cleveland.com reader ldcapp likes the Browns' approach to this rebuild. This reader writes,

"I personally don't have a problem with the Browns' approach. To win in the AFC North, you have win in the trenches, which the Browns never seem to do on a regular basis. Phil Taylor helps this."

"Like Acta said, it's time for the Tribe to take care of their own destiny. So many games left against their A.L. Central rivals. They can get back in this thing or fall way out." - clevelandtx

View full sizeChuck Crow | The Plain DealerManny Acta and the Indians will have plenty of chances against division opponents for the remainder of the season.

In response to the story Another lead disappears in the late innings as Texas Rangers top Cleveland Indians, 5-3, cleveland.com reader clevelandtx thinks this is the time for the Indians. This reader writes,

"Like Acta said, it's time for the Tribe to take care of their own destiny. So many games left against their A.L. Central rivals. They can get back in this thing or fall way out."

Indians' sweep would pull them within one game of first-place Detroit. A Tigers' three-game sweep would put them seven ahead of Cleveland.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerStarting pitcher Justin Masterson and the Indians hope to cut Detroit's AL Central lead to three games on Tuesday night in Cleveland.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Indians will begin their three-game series against Detroit on Tuesday night at Progressive Field, four games behind the first-place Tigers in the American League Central Division.

Realistically, the Indians couldn't ask for more, given that they are playing just .500 baseball -- beyond the expectations of most pundits as the season began, but also disappointing considering that Cleveland won 30 of its first 45 games.

And, in fact, once held a seven-game lead on Detroit, meaning there has been an 11-game turnaround.

Surely, the Indians can't afford to be swept by Detroit. That would put them seven games behind. The other standings scenarios for the Indians: (1) sweep Detroit, and close to within one game of the Tigers; (2) take two of three, and trail by three; (3) win one of three, and be five back.

(Don't count out the Chicago White Sox: 5 1/2 behind Detroit and 1 1/2 behind Cleveland)

Tom Singer writes about the Indians-Tigers series for MLB.com. He notes that from June 6 through July 22, the teams were never more than 1 1/2 games apart in the standings, and writes: 

Now, it might be time to again close ranks, as Detroit moves in for Tuesday night's opener of a three-game series at Progressive Field -- where the Indians own 11 consecutive wins over the Tigers, including an April 29-May 1 sweep.

"We just need to stay close, within striking distance, and not let this thing get too far out of reach for us," Indians closer Chris Perez said. "It's going to be fun. This is why we play. Every game is important, but those head-to-head matchups are even more important just because you control it yourself."

Although staff ace Justin Masterson will face off with Detroit newcomer Doug Fister in the opener, the focal point of the series for the Indians will come on Wednesday: Their own newcomer, Ubaldo Jimenez, will be making his first home start.

"I think they sent a great message to their team and the players when they went out and made their deal," said Detroit manager Jim Leyland. "I thought that was a tremendous message. They're for real. They're not going away."

Indians coverage by The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com includes Paul Hoynes' game story on the Indians 5-3 loss to the Rangers in Texas on Sunday night; his Indians Insider; his Indians Chatter; reporter Dennis Manoloff's interview about the Indians on Starting Blocks TV; an Indians fans poll.

Indians links

Winning the series -- not the one against the Tigers, but the World Series -- before 2014 is the only way the trade for Ubaldo Jimenez becomes worth the price. By Sheldon Ocker of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Indians outfielder Shin-Soo Choo is on a rehab assignment with the Class A Lake Coutny Captains. Mark Podolski writes for the News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal that Choo was impressive during batting practice (with video).

The Indians still have some good pitching prospects in their minor leagues -- even after trading Drew Pomeranz and Alex White to the Colorado Rockies for starting pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez -- writes Jordan Bastian of MLB.com.

Tigers manager Jim Leyland says that the Indians are "for real, not going away." By John Lowe for the Detroit Free Press.

Tigers catcher-first baseman Victor Martinez -- the former Indians star -- has a sore knee, but hopes to play on Tuesday night. That leads off a Tigers notebook by Tom Gage for the Detroit News.

Baseball this week features some series matchups -- including Indians-Tigers -- that could heat up the division races. By Jordan Bastian for MLB.com.

ESPN.com's weekly baseball preview, by David Schoenfield, includes some opinion on Indians vs. Tigers.

The Tigers have a chance to assume control of the division in their series against the Indians, Anthony Castrovince writes for MLB.com.

The Tigers have a chance to widen the gap in the AL Central. By Tom Iott for mlive.com.