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British Open 2010: Louis Oosthuizen's third straight superb round gives him 4-shot lead entering final 18

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Oosthuizen's 69 puts him 15-under par for the tourney, four strokes ahead of Paul Casey going into Sunday's final round at St. Andrews in Scotland.

louis-oosthuizen.jpgLouis Oosthuizen waves to the crowd on the 18th green after completing his third round of the British Open.

St. Andrews, Scotland — Louis Oosthuizen shot a 3-under 69 and will go to the final round of the British Open with a four-stroke lead.

The South African's total is 15-under 201. His closest challenger is England's Paul Casey, whose 67 left him at 205 overall Saturday. No one else is within seven shots of Oosthuizen (pronounced WUHST'-hy-zen), who failed to make the cut in three previous Open appearances.

Tiger Woods struggled to a 73 that left him a dozen shots behind, giving him little hope of winning a third straight Open at St. Andrews. He had dominating victories in 2000 and 2005.


Jeanmar Gomez to start Sunday for Indians

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Jeanmar Gomez, not David Huff, will start Sunday for the Indians against Detroit.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Right-hander Jeanmar Gomez will be recalled from Class AAA Columbus to make a spot start for the Indians on Sunday, Tribe manager Manny Acta said Saturday.

The Indians have not announced the corresponding roster move.

Gomez, 6-8 with a 5.70 ERA in 18 starts for the Clippers, was chosen over Columbus starters Josh Tomlin and David Huff. Tomlin is 8-3 with a 2.58 ERA in 18 games (15 starts). Huff, who began the season in Cleveland, is 3-0 with a 4.15 ERA in four starts for the Clippers.

"Gomez is lined up, Tomlin's not on the 40-man and, because it's just a spot start,  we think it's best for David to continue his development at Triple A,'' Acta said. "We've seen David before.''

Based on a feed from Huff's Twitter account early Friday, the lefty thought he was getting the nod. Informed of the tweet, Acta seemed less than pleased and said the Indians still were working through the decision.

Huff quickly denied that he actually did the tweeting and said he would reach out to the Indians to explain.

Asked if the tweet had anything to do with not opting for Huff, Acta said: "We think it's best for David to continue his development at Triple A.''

Huff was scratched from his scheduled start Friday night in Norfolk and replaced by Justin Germano.

Gomez once threw a perfect game for Class AA Akron.

 

 

P.M. Cleveland Cavaliers links: Byron Scott determined to be a winner again

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Scott is a three-time NBA champion as a player and coached two New Jersey teams to the Finals. More questions about LeBron James' character and his departure. And, J.J. Hickson, Anderson Varejao and Danny Green's roles.

byron-scott.jpgCavaliers coach Byron Scott won't pout about the departure of LeBron James.

Cleveland, Ohio -- New Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott was a standout guard on three Los Angeles Lakers' championship teams in the 1980's. As a coach, he led the New Jersey Nets to Eastern Conference titles in the 2001-02 and 2002-03 seasons.

Scott nurtured the Nets and later the New Orleans Hornets from being struggling outfits to becoming feared teams. With such a successful resume, Scott is not going to adopt a negative outlook on the Cavaliers' future. Marc J. Spears writes about Scott and the Cavaliers for Yahoo! Sports:

Scott has previously guided other rebuilding situations with the New Jersey Nets and Hornets. The difference is that the Cavs had the NBA’s best record the past two seasons and are expected to dramatically fall off without James.

“It’s a big difference because this organization the past two or three years is used to winning, whereas in Jersey we had to change their culture and try to change their thinking to make them winners,” Scott said. “The same in New Orleans. This organization is already used to winning. There are a bunch of guys on this team that aren’t going to accept losing. That makes my job a little bit easier, but at the same time they got a coach that won’t accept losing either.”

When Scott was named by the Cavaliers as their coach on July 1, he and the team didn't know if two-time NBA MVP LeBron James would re-sign with the team as a free agent. Of course, James announced on July 8 that he would sign with the Miami Heat, prompting an emotional, no-holds-barred indictment of James by Cavs owner Dan Gilbert.

Marc J. Spears writes about Scott's take on Gilbert's fiery rebuke of James:

“I love his passion. I really do,” Scott said. “Some of the stuff he said, I know some people took offense to it, obviously. You got Jesse Jackson saying it’s racial and it’s a slave mentality. I don’t know Dan that well, and I haven’t known him for a long time. But that’s the last thing that it was all about. He was hurt and he felt that this was a place [James] should be. I read it, I listened. And the next day when they talked about it, I made no bones about it.

“I want an owner that’s passionate and wants to win and is driven to win. That’s why he is so successful in the business he is doing.

“I had no problem with it. Most people took it the right way, and a lot of people in Cleveland did. But you got a lot of people that didn’t. I got his back.”

The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com/cavs covers the Cavaliers. Plain Dealer Cavaliers beat writer Brian Windhorst writes about power forward J.J. Hickson's strong play in the Las Vegas Summer League. Hickson is expected to have an expanded role next season. 

Tough to handle

As the Cavaliers try to move ahead, James continues to be ridiculed about how he handled his departure from Cleveland -- including the bizarre "The Decision" special on ESPN when he announced his move -- and his behavior is now coming under intensified scrutiny.

Adrian Wojnarowski writes a lengthy story on James for Yahoo! Sports. He describes how James' move to Miami materialized and how James' attitude has for years turned off people involved in the sport.

For instance, Wojnarowski writes about Team USA's approaching trip to the 2008 Summer Olympics:

From Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski to managing director Jerry Colangelo to NBA elders, the issue of James’ immaturity and downright disrespectfulness had become a consuming topic on the march to the Olympics. The course of history could’ve changed dramatically, because there was a real risk that James wouldn’t be brought to Beijing based on fears his monumental talents weren’t worth the daily grind of dealing with him.

Wojnarowski writes about the days leading to the telecast of the roundly-criticized "The Decision."

Back in Akron, James still wanted to go through his live hourlong television show on July 8 to announce his decision. This had been Maverick Carter’s big idea, his production, and still people around him worried about the fallout in Cleveland. Several friends told James this was a bad idea to do to his hometown, that leaving the Cavaliers live on national television would make this a public-relations disaster for him.

James didn’t seem to agree, didn’t think it made a difference. Mad was mad, he thought. He would take a beating, but it would subside and people would love him again in Cleveland.

Danny's chance

Among the young Cavaliers' players who will get an opportunity to make an impact next season is Danny Green. Cleveland picked the North Carolina alum in the second round of the 2009 draft.

Bob Finnan writes about Green for the News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal:

The second-round pick will probably never be a star, but he can be a role player for the team. Green, who is heading into his second season with the Cavs, averaged 2.0 points in 20 games as a rookie.

"His learning curve has to pick up a little faster," Cavs summer-league coach Paul Pressey said. "This is the second time around for him. He needs to be a higher level of player on the floor. But I love him because he has fundamentals."

Questions linger

Conversation continues about events leading up to Miami's signing of James and Chris Bosh, while keeping its own free agent, Dwyane Wade.

Terence Moore of NBA FanHouse writes that there needs to be an investigation. Among other things, Moore refers to Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert's claim that James "quit" during this spring's conference semifinal round playoff loss to the Boston Celtics:

Did James quit?

Well, if the fix wasn't in, Stern would tell everybody that the commissioner either did -- or that he was going to do -- exactly what Gilbert suggested: Go back and look at the tape.

For those of us who did, it wasn't pretty.

In Game 5, for instance, the Cavaliers were ripped by 32 points on their home court with James looking apathetic throughout. He made just three of his 14 shots from the field.

Worse, in the decisive Game 6 for the Celtics, James played as if his mind was in -- let's see -- South Beach or something.

When the Cavaliers needed to scramble from a deficit at the end, Mike Brown tried to get James and the rest of his players to foul. Not only did James ignore his coach to the point of waving him off, according to one report from the Associated Press, but anybody watching on HD or otherwise could see that James was distracted, disinterested or both.

Looking for answers

anderson-varejao.jpgThe Cavaliers will now rely even more on the relentless hustle of Anderson Varejao.

The Cavaliers must make decisions on how to approach their future. Zac Jackson details 10 questions about the team for FoxSportsOhio.com, including "What about (Anderson) Varejao?:"

Just a 7-point per game scorer for his career, he’s made his name with hustle plays and defense. Now it’s the next step for Varejao, who will not only have to find ways to score without those unbelievable passes from LeBron but without his on and off the court mentor in Zydrunas Ilgauskas. It’s going to be Varejao’s seventh year in the NBA and though he’s never going to be an 18-point a night guy, the Cavs are going to need him to perform like an All-NBA defender and be good enough chasing rebounds to help get their up-tempo attack going. It seems like a coach who loves defense and playing fast would love Varejao, so here’s his chance to take a leap.

More on the Cavs

Brian Dulik writes for the Medina County Gazette and Elyria Chronicle-Telegram about an aspect of guard Delonte West's sentence on weapons charges.

If the Heat hires members of LeBron James' entourage, that could lead to an NBA investigation, writes Ken Berger for CBSSports.com.

After James left the Cavaliers, a Kent State student wanted to drop his car -- called the "Witness Mobile" in reference to James -- from a crane. Now, Austin Briggs has put the car on sale, writes Ed Balint for the Canton Repository.

In recent seasons, the Cavaliers have ranked at or near the top of various "power rankings." Not right now, though, as shown on FoxSports.com's list.

 


 

 

Blister on finger puts Cleveland closer Kerry Wood on the DL: Indians Insider

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Wood had hoped the All-Star break, which lasted four days for Cleveland, would be enough for the finger to heal. He has not pitched since July 11 at Tampa Bay.

kerry wood.jpgView full sizeIndians closer Kerry Wood says he has been dealing with the blister off and on since returning from the DL in early May.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Closer Kerry Wood was on the move Saturday -- to the disabled list, not out of town.

The Indians placed Wood on the 15-day DL, retroactive to July 12, because of a blister on his right index finger. Jensen Lewis was recalled from Class AAA Columbus.

The bosses would like to deal Wood, who makes $10.5 million and is signed through this season with a vested option for 2011. Barring the unforeseen, the option will not vest.

The non-waiver trade deadline is July 31. A player must clear waivers to be traded in August.

Wood, who broke in with the Cubs in 1998, has been on the disabled list 14 times in his career, including two this season. He missed the first month-plus because of a strained muscle in his upper back.

Wood said he has been dealing with the blister off and on since returning from the DL in early May. It flared up on the Tribe's most recent trip to Texas and Tampa Bay.

Wood had hoped the All-Star break, which lasted four days for Cleveland, would be enough for the finger to heal. He has not pitched since July 11 at Tampa Bay.

"It's been better, it's been worse," he said. "Hopefully, we stopped it before it gets too bad."

A blister on the index finger sidelined Wood for several weeks in the middle of the 2008 season. He signed with the Indians that December.

Chris PerezView full sizeChris Perez will take over closing duties while Wood is on the DL.

Wood is 1-4 with a 6.30 ERA and eight saves in 23 appearances. In six appearances since June 27, he has allowed one run in 5 1/3 innings and struck out seven.

Chris Perez takes over as closer, just as he did when Wood sat because of the lat muscle.

The Indians have five players on the major-league disabled list (pitcher Anthony Reyes, outfielder Grady Sizemore, shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera, outfielder Shin-Soo Choo and Wood).

Lewis begins his third stint with the Indians this year. He went a combined 2-2 with a 3.86 ERA in 20 appearances from April 5 to May 6 and from May 30 to June 23.

For Columbus, Lewis is 2-0 with one save and a 2.30 ERA in 12 appearances. Right-handed hitters at that level are batting .138 (4-for-29) against him.

"I've done everything the organization has asked me to do," Lewis said. "I'm going to keep doing what I've been doing. Hopefully, I'm here to stay."

Gomez gets the call: Right-hander Jeanmar Gomez will be promoted from Class AAA Columbus to make a spot start for the Indians on Sunday against Detroit, Tribe manager Manny Acta said Saturday afternoon.

Acta spoke the words. He did not tweet them.

jeanmar gomez.jpgView full sizePitcher Jeanmar Gomez is being promoted from Class AAA Columbus to make a start for the Indians on Sunday.

The Indians have not announced the corresponding roster move.

Gomez, 6-8 with a 5.70 ERA in 18 starts for the Clippers, was chosen over Columbus starters Josh Tomlin and David Huff. Tomlin is 8-3 with a 2.58 ERA in 18 games (15 starts). Huff, who began the season in Cleveland, is 3-0 with a 4.15 ERA in four starts for the Clippers.

"Gomez is lined up, Tomlin's not on the 40-man and, because it's just a spot start, we think it's best for David to continue his development at Triple A," Acta said. "We've seen David before."

Based on a feed from Huff's Twitter account early Friday, the lefty thought he was getting the nod. Informed of the tweet that afternoon, Acta seemed less than pleased and said the Indians still were working through the decision.

Huff, who led the Tribe with 11 victories last season, quickly denied he actually did the tweeting. He said he would reach out to the Indians to explain.

Asked if the tweet had anything to do with not opting for Huff, Acta said, "We think it's best for David to continue his development at Triple A."

In what appeared to be good news for Huff on Friday night, he was scratched from his scheduled start at Norfolk, Va., and replaced by Justin Germano.

Gomez, who once threw a perfect game for Class AA Akron, will face Vermilion High School product Andy Oliver (0-3, 6.38 ERA).

The Lowe down: Renowned sportswriter John Lowe, who has covered the Tigers for the Detroit Free Press since 1986, invented the "quality start." It is defined as six or more innings, three or fewer earned runs.

Lowe came up with the stat while writing for the Philadelphia Inquirer in the mid-1980s.

"I was keeping logs on every starting pitcher, and I noticed how often a guy would pitch well and not win the game -- either because of lack of offensive support or the bullpen not holding the lead," Lowe said. "At about the same time, I had managers, particularly Whitey Herzog, talking about how they were looking for their starting pitcher to go six innings and turn it over to the bullpen.

"So I said, 'We need some scale, some new way, to keep track of how often a starting pitcher does his job in the bullpen era.' And I wanted something simple that I would write about and that people could understand. I didn't want it to have square-root signs or the Pythagorean theorem."

The quality start has made pitchers millions of dollars over the years during contract negotiations. It also has its critics, the main beef being that a start of six innings and three earned runs equals a 4.50 ERA.

"You can't judge any stat by its minimum," Lowe said. "You can pitch one inning, give up two earned runs and get a save. That's an 18.00 ERA. You can give up a ton of runs as a starter and get a win.

"You can pitch badly and get a win, pitch badly and get a save. But it's very hard to pitch badly and get a quality start."

Lowe is recognizable on the field because he wears the old-style Panama hat. No, Lowe did not cover baseball in the dead-ball era. Nor does he use a manual typewriter.

"I wear it because my skin is sensitive to the sun," he said. "I started wearing it in spring training and it carried over to the season."

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: dmanoloff@plaind.com, 216-999-4664

With chess, teammates are just pawns to Travis Hafner: Cleveland Indians Chatter

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The Indians designated hitter reigns over the clubhouse in the Royal Game.

travis hafner.jpgView full sizeIndians designated hitter Travis Hafner knows his way around a chess board.

Clubhouse confidential: Travis Hafner routed Matt LaPorta in a chess match Saturday morning. Hafner is the Tribe's Garry Kasparov.

"It was quick -- two minutes, five seconds," Pronk said. "LaPorta wants to take two minutes per move. I can't play like that."

Hafner suffered an upset loss last month to Shelley Duncan but said he avenged it -- and then some -- on the team plane during a recent trip.

"I beat Duncan four times in a row, got tired and fell asleep," Hafner said.

Lewis on LeBron: Jensen Lewis might be the biggest Cavaliers fan in the Indians' organization. He said he was disappointed but not surprised when LeBron James left for Miami.

"On one hand, he has the right to go where he wants," Lewis said. "But when you come out a couple of years ago and say you're going to build your dynasty here, it's kind of two-faced. But everybody moves on. The Cavs will rise again."

Fun with 81: The Indians' 4-3 victory in the first game Saturday gave them 81 over Detroit in Jacobs/Progressive Field -- their most against any opponent.

Stat of the day: The combined 11 walks by Fausto Carmona (six) and Justin Verlander (five) Saturday afternoon tied for most in the majors by opposing starters this year.

-- Dennis Manoloff

Cabrera, LaPorta, Santana should anchor Cleveland Indians infield: Hey, Hoynsie!

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Second base and third base remain in flux, but there are candidates who could become solid contributors for a while.

Asdrubal CabreraView full sizeShortstop Asdrubal Cabrera should be a mainstay in the infield for a while for the Indians.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: The Indians' infield has been in a state of flux for years. Who do you see as mainstays for the future out of the current roster and players in the farm system? -- Gareth Harris, Westlake

A: Hey, Gareth: I think you start with Asdrubal Cabrera at shortstop, Carlos Santana at catcher and Matt LaPorta at first. Second and third base are up for grabs. Jayson Nix, Jason Donald, Luis Valbuena, Jason Kipnis and Cord Phelps are possibilities at second. Jhonny Peralta, Lonnie Chisenhall and Jared Goedert are candidates at third.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: Do you feel that LeBron James leaving Cleveland will create a Cavs spiral similar to Larry Dolan buying the Indians? -- Carol Holmes, Barberton

A: Hey, Carol: No, I don't. For one thing, it's easier to build a good basketball team than it is a good baseball team, because you only need five players and only one or two dominant ones. Secondly, I think Dan Gilbert has a lot more money to spend than Larry and Paul Dolan.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: With interleague play in the books for the year, and Cleveland once again playing Pittsburgh, is this something we will see every year as a geographic-rivalry series? I'd certainly hope so, considering Pittsburgh is much more of a natural rival than Cincinnati. -- Kevin Koval, Youngstown

A: Hey, Kevin: I'd love to see the Indians play the Pirates every year in interleague play. This year's series at PNC Park drew great crowds for two bad ballclubs. Imagine if the Indians and Pirates ever got competitive?

Right now, MLB has the Tribe locked into a home and away series with the Reds every year. That's also drawn well, and I don't see that going away.

It would be nice if the schedule-makers could include a Cleveland-Pittsburgh series every year in the two teams' interleague schedules. We'll see what happens.

josh barfield.jpgView full sizeJosh Barfield is in the minors with San Diego.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: With all the problems the Indians had been having with second base until Jayson Nix came along, I was wondering what happened to Josh Barfield and if the Tribe ever thought about giving him a chance to see what he could do again? -- Erich Golden, Westfield, N.J.

A: Hey, Erich: Barfield is in the minors with San Diego. I don't see him getting another shot with the Tribe. In fact, I would imagine Barfield would stay as far away from Cleveland as possible. This is where his career came to a dramatic halt.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: Do you expect the Tribe to try to improve the team at the trade deadline? Do we have any minor-league talent that is highly regarded? -- Jerry Fogle, Grafton

A: Hey, Jerry: The Indians are going to be sellers, not buyers, at the trade deadlines of July 31 (nonwaiver) and Aug. 31 (waivers required).

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: I was surprised the Tribe called up Chris Gimenez to replace veteran catcher Mike Redmond. Isn't Gimenez an outfielder/first baseman? I thought he was an emergency catcher last year? -- George Hays, Cleveland

A: Hey, George: Last year, Gimenez appeared in 18 games at first, 14 games in left field, seven games in right field and eight at catcher with the Indians. At Class AAA Columbus this year, he played 33 games in the outfield, 17 games at catcher, three games at first base and one at third.

It's clear the Indians are trying to get as young as possible. It's also clear they weren't going to call up Lou Marson to sit behind Carlos Santana. They want Marson to play every day and try to get his offense back together.

Gimenez was the next option.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: I'm surprised you think Jhonny Peralta will be gone. I thought he was considered a "core" player for the team? -- John Walton, Cleveland

A: Hey, John: I like Peralta. I like him as a person and a player, but for the past couple of years, his game has been stuck in neutral. If he's around long enough in the second half to hit 20 homers, maybe he once again becomes a core player.

Right now, the chances of the Indians picking up his $7 million option for 2011 are slim and none.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: In your July 6 column, you mentioned that Larry Dolan and Mark Shapiro invested heavily in the minor-league system. Are there any facts to back that up? I know Dolan/Shapiro keep repeating that claim, but the Tribe has the minimum number of farm teams and does not spend on bonus payments in the draft. Even the Pirates outspend them in that respect every year. -- Lee Petersen, Akron

A: Hey, Lee: The Indians went above MLB's unofficial slotting system last year to sign No. 1 pick Alex White to a $2.25 million signing bonus. According to Baseball America, the Indians spent $3.85 million on their first 10 picks in last year's draft. They ranked 20th out of 30 teams, spending more than teams such as the Dodgers, Braves, Blue Jays, Rays, Cubs, Rangers, Phillies and Mets.

One of the reasons the Pirates spend more money on the draft than the Indians, and almost every other club, is because they've lost for so long that they always have a high pick. When you draft high, the best players are available and they demand big money.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: I've been an Indians fan since 1950, despite not living in Cleveland. I've made many trips to Cleveland, Toronto and New York to see them play. For the past several years, I've had the Major League Baseball package on cable, so I see virtually all of their games.

Travis HafnerView full sizeIndians designated hitter Travis Hafner.

Of all the things I've experienced as a Tribe fan, I can't remember anything stranger than the deterioration of Travis Hafner. He is one of my favorite Indians and has gone from the "feel good" story of getting out of Rafael Palmeiro's shadow in Texas and being one the most feared hitters in the league, to a player who probably no longer belongs in the majors. Yet very little is said or written about this incredible decline of a once very good player. As far as I know, he is now healthy and has never tested positive for any illegal substances.

I have two questions. First, what do you think is the cause of Hafner's rapid decline? Second, how long will the Indians keep him on the roster? I'm aware of the money owed him over the next several years. But that doesn't justify giving him at-bats that hurt the team and take away from others who might help the team in the future. -- John Eckhardt, Pittsford, N.Y.

A: Hey, John: Hafner is on record as saying he never used steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs. If you believe him, and I do, then his decline has to be tied to the surgery he had on his right shoulder two years ago.

I think he's lost bat speed and gets beat inside by pitches that didn't beat him during his run from 2004 through 2007. I think he's lost confidence and plate discipline. Pitchers no longer fear him, and it shows.

Hafner's contract is not only the biggest in Indians history, but the worst. He's scheduled to make $13 million in 2011 and $13 million in 2012. I would think the club has to address it sometime in the near future.

If incoming General Manager Chris Antonetti can somehow get out from under this deal, it will be akin to former Cavs GM Jim Paxson unloading Shawn Kemp. If not, I don't think Hafner is going anywhere. I can't imagine ownership agreeing to release him while owing him so much money.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: You've been close to the Tribe for a long time. Can you give us your opinions as to why the organization of the 1990s was so successful? -- Fred Talbot, Cleveland

A: Hey, Fred: Is this some kind of test?

Let's try good players, a good manager, a good general manager, good drafts, a good farm system, good scouts, a sold-out ballpark and a competitive payroll. Nothing to it, right?

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: I get why the Indians had to trade Cliff Lee and CC Sabathia. I don't get why they had to trade Carl Pavano, who didn't make that much money and who would have really strengthened the starting rotation. -- James Thompson, Oak Park, Ill.

A: Hey, James: Like the trades of Sabathia, Lee and Victor Martinez, the trade of Pavano was all about money. The Indians signed Pavano for $1.5 million, but he was on the verge of shaking the bonus tree for an additional $2.85 million, and the Indians didn't want to pay it.

The Indians and Twins reportedly negotiated a deal on how to pay for the bonuses.

One more thing that led to Pavano's trade. He was eligible for arbitration. He didn't file but signed a one-year deal worth $7 million with the Twins. The Indians were never going to pay that much to keep him.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: Why will the Dolans not sell the Indians to somebody who will keep the players that become stars and bring in new players? Imagine all the ex-Indians that were given away over the past 10 years and look at the All-Star lineup we would now have. Will they never sell? Or are the Indians nothing more than a write-off? Can they ever be forced to sell? -- Skip Herndeen, Maple Heights

A: Hey, Skip: How many people do you think are lined up to buy the last-place Indians at this point? And why would the Dolans sell them now when they almost assuredly wouldn't get what they paid for it?

I can't foresee any reason why MLB would force the Dolans to sell the club. As long as owners pay their bills, it's hard to fire them just because they put a lousy product on the field.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: We've been hearing a lot about the success of Bryce Stowell and T.J. McFarland in the daily minor-league reports. Do you know what style of pitchers they are? -- Casey Valentine, Dublin, Ohio

A: Hey, Casey: Stowell is a 6-2, 205-pound right-hander from University of California Irvine and Pepperdine University.

The Indians took him with the 22nd pick in the 2008 draft. He started the year in the bullpen at Class A Kinston before moving to Class AA Akron, where he went 7-for-7 in saves in 14 scoreless appearances.

He's in Class AAA Columbus and still hasn't allowed a run since May 15. He normally throws between 94 mph and 97 mph, and one scout clocked him at 100 mph. He has 81 strikeouts, 22 walks and has allowed 33 hits in 52 innings and has put himself in line for a big-league look this year.

McFarland is a 6-3, 190-pound left-hander. He was the Tribe's fourth-round pick out of high school in 2007. He's similar to a young Aaron Laffey. He has a good slider with a good sinking fastball and induces a lot of ground balls.

He's 9-2 with a 2.45 ERA in 17 games, including 12 starts. McFarland has 62 strikeouts, 25 walks and has allowed 86 hits in 95 innings. He's in line for a promotion to Akron.

Q: Hey, Hoynsie: Here is a question I am not sure I would have asked even a month ago. Any chance the Indians release Jhonny Peralta and bring up the red-hot Jared Goedert to play third soon? -- Paul Welling, Rossford

A: Hey, Paul: I think the Indians would much rather trade Peralta than release him. Goedert could get a look in September. If he does, that would put Peralta on the bench for a time.

-- Hoynsie

Got an Indians question? Send it in. Submit your question at cleveland.com/heyhoynsie, and Plain Dealer Indians beat writer Paul Hoynes will choose at least one to answer each Sunday here in the Sports section. All of Paul's answers are archived online.

Game 2 Saturday: Indians and Tigers tied, 1-1, through six

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Indians right-hander Mitch Talbot somehow managed to allow just one run in the first three innings. The Indians and Tigers were tied, 1-1, through six.

CLEVELAND -- The Indians and Tigers were tied, 1-1, through six innings tonight at Progressive Field.

It is the second game of a day-night doubleheader. The Tribe won, 4-3, in the afternoon.

As the seventh innning began, threatening clouds appeared to be moving in.

The Tigers loaded the bases with none out in the first inning against Mitch Talbot but failed to score. Miguel Cabrera struck out, Brennan Boesch popped out and Brandon Inge grounded into a fielder's choice.

Detroit broke through with Ryan Raburn's two-out single to center in the second. He drove in Danny Worth.

Carlos Santana tied it with a homer in the fourth off Rick Porcello.

Talbot gave up the one run in five innings before being relieved by Jensen Lewis.

Porcello used a relatively low pitch count to get through six.

 

Cleveland Browns Stadium one of big five competing for Big Ten title game

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The Big Ten hasn't even officially announced it definitely will create a football championship game, but with the league expanding to 12 teams for the 2011 season, it's easy to see why a title game is a near lock.

Cleveland Browns StadiumView full sizeCity officials would love for Cleveland Browns Stadium to host a Big Ten Championship Game.
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Imagine Ohio State vs. Nebraska at Cleveland Browns Stadium on Dec. 3, 2011, in the inaugural Big Ten Championship game.

David Gilbert, president of the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, can see it.

"We don't go after an event if we don't believe it belongs in Cleveland," Gilbert said this week.

The Big Ten hasn't even officially announced that it definitely will create a football championship game, so the conference certainly hasn't taken formal bids from any potential sites for the game. (Commissioner Jim Delany should update the process at the Big Ten meetings on Aug. 2-3.) But with Nebraska accepted as a new conference member and the league expanding to 12 teams for the 2011 season, it's easy to see why a title game is a near lock and why at least five stadiums have expressed an interest in hosting the game.

The SEC Championship, a reasonable comparison in another football hotbed, made more than $14 million in profit for that conference last season, while the city of Atlanta, which has hosted the game at the Georgia Dome since 1994, reportedly generates $30 million in business from the game.

"It should be a lot like having a bowl game," Gilbert said of the Big Ten Championship. "If it's moved to a city that is in big-time Big Ten country, that game should be a sellout."

The logical leaders to host that sellout are Indianapolis, a convenient and fan-friendly site with a history of hosting major events from the Super Bowl to the Final Four to the Big Ten basketball tournaments; and Chicago, the home of Big Ten headquarters and the most entertaining metropolis in the Big Ten footprint.

"There have been some discussions with the Big Ten to let them know we would really be interested in this," said John Dedman, the director of communications for the Indiana Sports Corporation. "With the basketball tournaments, we have ongoing discussions with them as we plan for them, but by no means are we very far down the road."

Other cities, Cleveland included, also have expressed initial interest to the conference. But Indy vs. Chicago is part of a bigger debate that supersedes location, and gets to the heart of Big Ten football more than the selection of any one city. Should the game be played indoors or outdoors?

Another indoor contender would be Ford Field in Detroit, while Cleveland would join Chicago and the intriguing wild card, Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis., as the best outdoor options available. With no future dome planned for Browns Stadium, Gilbert, not surprisingly, comes down on the side of Mother Nature.

"Our feeling is Big Ten football is outdoor football, and weather is part of it," Gilbert said. "That's part of what makes Big Ten football great."

For fans who think warm-weather teams have an edge on the Big Ten in bowl games played indoors or in southern cities, choosing to play in a climate-controlled facility might be a missed opportunity. If the 2014 Super Bowl can go to New York, certainly the Big Ten can handle a little wind chill for its big game in Ohio, Illinois or Wisconsin.

The other decision hinges on whether the Big Ten is looking for a permanent home, as the SEC has found in Atlanta, or whether it would prefer to rotate between cities, as the Big 12 did by going to St. Louis, San Antonio, Kansas City, Mo., the Dallas area and Houston over the past 14 years.

Gilbert believes the Midwest has more options than the SEC, where he sees Atlanta as the center of major sporting events in that area. Big Ten country has several good options. Gilbert is intent on proving Cleveland is one of them.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: dlesmerises@plaind.com, 216-999-4479


Jordan Brown delivering runs for the Clippers: Minor league report

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Outfielder Brown, the Class AAA International League's leading hitter last season, was impressive during the early portion of spring training with the Indians, then suffered a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery.

jordan-brown.jpgJordan Brown during spring training with the Indians.

FARM REPORT

AAA Columbus Clippers

Tonight: Clippers (56-37) at Norfold (43-51), 7:15. Clippers RHP Josh Tomlin (8-3, 2.58) vs. Tides LHP Zachary Britton (0-1, 2.53).

Notes: Going into Saturday night's game, 2B Cord Phelps was batting .375 (36-for-96) with 11 doubles, two triples and three home runs since being promoted from Akron....3B Jared Goedert (.326) was on a 12-game hitting streak and had reached base in his last 25 games, a stretch during which he was 32-for-102 (.314) with 13 homers and 26 RBI....LF Jordan Brown (.302), the International League's batting leader in 2009 (.336), had 44 RBI in just 212 at bats this season: one RBI per every 4.82 at bats. He was 13-for-35 (.371) with six doubles and two homers in his last nine games....1B Wes Hodges (.270) had not committed an error in his last 39 games....RH reliever Josh Judy (1-0, 3.33) had struck out 35 and walked six in 24 1/3 innings....RH reliever Jess Todd (3-2, four saves, 2.82) had struck out 44 and walked 12 in 38 1/3 innings. In his last 10 games, Todd had fanned 16 and walked one in 10 2/3 innings, allowing one run.

AA Akron Aeros

Tonight: Erie (38-55) at Aeros (47-45), 7:05. SeaWolves LHP Charlie Furbush (1-0, 2.30) vs. Aeros LHP Eric Berger (4-5, 4.79).

Notes: Going into Saturday night's game, RH reliever Omar Aguilar (1-2, four saves, 3.71) not allowed a home run in 43 2/3 innings this season, while striking out 51. Aguilar had fanned 13 while allowing just five hits and one walk in his last 10 1/3 innings, spanning seven games....RHP Paolo Espino (9-3, 3.76) had held batters to a .197 batting average in 91 innings, making 13 starts and six relief appearances. In his last 10 games (five starts), Espino was 5-1 with a 3.45 ERA, fanning 44 in 44 1/3 innings, while yielding 36 hits and 10 walks....OF Jerad Head (.279) was 7-for-20 (.350) with four doubles in his last six games.

Advanced A Kinston Indians

Tonight: Indians (44-46) at Potomac (42-48), 6:35. Indians RHP Joseph Mahalic (3-4, 4.15) vs. Nationals RHP Brad Peacock (3-9, 4.09).

Notes: Going into Saturday night's game, RH reliever Rob Bryson (2-1, one save, 2.25) had struck out 38 in 20 innings, allowing seven hits and eight walks....3B Jeremie Tice was 7-for-18 (.389) with three doubles in his last four games, after getting two hits in his first 19 at bats at Kinston. When Tice was promoted from Lake County, he was batting .282 and leading the Midwest League with 51 RBI....OF Lucas Montero (.266) was 13-for-35 (.371) with a double and three triples in his last eight games....OF Abner Abreu (.246) was 10-for-34 (.294) with a double, two homers and six RBI in his last eight games.

A Lake County Captains

Tonight: Captains (55-35) at Cedar Rapids (54-34), 7:35. Captains LHP Matt Packer (7-4, 1.68) vs. Kernels LHP Tyler Skaggs (7-4, 3.24).

Notes: Going into Saturday night's game, RH reliever Jose Flores (0-0, one save, 0.95) had struck out 26, walked two and given up 12 hits in 19 innings over 12 games....Catcher Roberto Perez (.228) had thrown out 32 of 73 runners attempting to steal, an excellent 44 percent rate....Saturday night's starting pitcher, LH Matt Packer, is 3-2 with an 0.81 ERA in 44 2/3 innings in road games.

A Mahoning Valley Scrappers

Tonight: Williamsport (16-12) at Scrappers (11-17), 7:05. Crosscutters RHP David Buchanan (0-0, 3.60) vs. Scrappers RHP Owen Dew (1-1, 3.32).

Notes: Going into Saturday night's game, 2B Daniel DeGeorge (.250) was 9-for-26 (.346) in his last eight games, and OF Kevin Rucker (.264) was 8-for-22 (.364) in his last six games....RH reliever Kyle C. Smith (0-0, 7.36), from Kent State, had struck out 21 and allowed just nine hits in 14 2/3 innings, but had walked 13.

Independent Lake Erie Crushers

Tonight: Windy City (22-25) at Crushers (28-21), 7:05. ThunderBolts LHP Andrew Werner (4-1, 2.00) vs. Crushers RHP Travis Risser (5-2, 3.45).

Notes: Going into Saturday night's game, 1B Eddie Tisdale (.284) was 6-for-16 (.375) with two doubloes and a triple in his last four games....RH reliever Jeff Cinadr (2-1, three saves, 1.78) had held batters to a .180 average in 35 1/3 innings, spanning 20 appearances.

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott reminds players that LeBron James wasn't a one-man show: Terry Pluto

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Byron Scott says the Cavaliers have enough talent to remain a strong team in the NBA, even without that guy who decided to head to Miami.

byron scott.jpgView full sizeNew Cavaliers coach Byron Scott isn't ready to concede next season just because LeBron James won't be here.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — New Cavs coach Byron Scott has been preparing for Life Without LeBron from the moment James announced his decision to sign with the Miami Heat.

One of Scott's first moves was to talk to Mo Williams, challenging the guard to "get back to your All-Star form."

Scott already has his speech ready for the team. Some of the players have heard it already -- now that James is gone, this is your chance to show what you can do.

"When you have a great player like LeBron, it's easy to throw him the ball and wait for him to make plays," Scott said. "My system isn't built for one guy to dominate the ball. We will have a lot of passing, a lot of movement, creating a lot of open shots."

Scott believes he can play Daniel Gibson and Williams together, despite neither being taller than 6-2.

"They can flat out shoot," he said. "When we won 56 games in New Orleans [2007-08], I played Chris Paul [6-0] and Jannero Pargo [6-1] together a lot. I think A.P. [Anthony Parker] can do well in this system, too."

Gibson started 10 games last season and the Cavs went 9-1 in those games. He averaged 11.7 points, shooting 48 percent both from the field and on 3-pointers. Scott is not saying he'll start Williams and Gibson, but he's intrigued by the idea of pairing the two shooters.

Scott's approach is that Antawn Jamison was an All-Star. Williams was an All-Star. J.J. Hickson has talent and has been waiting for his chance. Anderson Varejao made the all-defensive team. The Cavs still have talent.

"This team won more [regular season] games than anyone else the last two years," Scott said. "LeBron is a great player, but it wasn't all LeBron."

He talks about "pushing" Williams to return to being a creative point guard, not just a spot-up shooter -- which had been his primary role with James. He plans to "push" Hickson, "because he has so much talent."

j.j. hickson.jpgView full sizeThe Cavaliers are optimistic about the rapidly improving J.J. Hickson (21).

Hickson is only 21. He's heading into what would be his senior season, had he remained at North Carolina State. Hickson averaged 8.5 points and 4.9 rebounds last season, shooting 55 percent in 21 minutes a game.

"He's been working on his jumper and shooting it well," said Scott. "He can have a breakout year for us."

Scott is a confident, positive person. It has carried him through two rebuilding projects covering 10 years in New Jersey and New Orleans. He hates the words "rebuilding year."

"I play to win," he said. "But we also have a chance to develop players."

Scott admits the Cavs need a small forward, as they really don't have one at the moment. He has been impressed with Danny Green, a 6-6 guard from North Carolina who was the team's second-round draft pick in 2009.

Green is more of a guard than small forward, "but I have played three guards at times."

He also is thinking about Jamison as a sixth-man, a super-scorer who can change the tempo of the game.

"I need to talk to Antawn about that," he said. "We've been trading messages. Antawn played in my system at Washington, and really did well."

In his ideal world, the Cavs would find a center to start next to Hickson at small forward. Then the Cavs would bring Varejao and Jamison off the bench.

"I don't know if we can do that, but it would be very effective," he said.

The Cavs have been running in their summer-league team. Scott knows it has been "a shock" to some of the players.

"We don't want to play like Phoenix and average 110 points," he said. "I still am a defensive coach. But we must push the ball, we have to run."

And he has a message for the Cavs' veterans.

"All they have to do is talk to J.J. [Hickson] and Danny [Green]," said Scott. "They'd better be in shape, and ready to run. They may not like some of the things I'm going to ask them to do, but in the long run, they'll see it's worth it."

To reach Terry Pluto: terrypluto2003@yahoo.com, 216-999-4674

It's unlikely you'll see Ohio State Buckeyes use Jordan Hall at receiver: Hey, Doug!

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The Buckeyes have enough options at receiver, but it will be interesting to see how Jim Tressel juggles his crowded backfield.

jordan hall.jpgView full sizeBuckeyes running back Jordan Hall.

Q: Hey, Doug: With the loss of Duron Carter, is there any chance that running back/return man Jordan Hall could be used occasionally at wide receiver? -- Bob Anderson, Murrysville, Pa.

A: Hey, Bob: The ability Hall flashed at times last season has created a lot of interest among fans, but the Buckeyes have too many other options at receiver, even if many of them are young, to use Hall out there. But with a crowded backfield, I'll be interested to see how Jim Tressel plans to mix and match those backs, maybe putting two tailbacks on the field together, maybe throwing to the backs more than we have seen in the past. For all the intrigue about Hall, Jaamal Berry and Carlos Hyde, though, in the end I believe veterans Brandon Saine and Dan Herron will get the vast majority of the carries.

Q: Hey, Doug: With few scholarships remaining for Ohio State's Class of 2011, it seems grayshirting could be an option for some. What does that mean? -- Felipe Encarnacion, Wichita, Kan.

A: Hey, Felipe: Grayshirting is when a recruit doesn't enroll at school in the fall, sits out that semester, and then enrolls and joins the team for the winter. That player can then count against the next group of recruits, which can help if there's a scholarship crunch in one class, and he also retains all five years of eligibility. Quarterback Todd Boeckman was the most successful example of grayshirting at Ohio State, as he grayshirted one year, then redshirted the next and still had four years left to play.

However, I doubt that will be an issue for Ohio State with this class, which currently has 17 pledges and likely five or six spots remaining. Jim Tressel typically has a couple scholarships to hand to fourth- and fifth-year walk-ons each fall, and he seldom hits the 25-player limit on a class, so I doubt grayshirting will come into play.

-- Doug

Got an Ohio State question? Send it in. Submit your question at cleveland.com/heydoug, and Plain Dealer Ohio State beat writer Doug Lesmerises will choose at least one to answer each Sunday here in the sports section. All of Doug's answers will be archived online.

How close were the Cleveland Cavaliers to obtaining Chris Paul? Hey, Brian!

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The New Orleans Hornets have made it clear that their star guard is not available for trade.

chris paul.jpgView full sizeThe Cavaliers were one of several teams that reportedly inquired about trading for guard Chris Paul, but the Hornets made it clear they have no interest in a deal.

Q: Hey, Brian: I saw rumors a week ago that the Cavs attempted to trade with New Orleans for Chris Paul. Do you know the offer details? Was New Orleans simply not giving him up for anything the Cavs could throw at them? --Kyle, Columbus

A: Hey, Kyle: Paul is not available and the Hornets have said it over and over. Teams, including the Cavs, called to see and the answer was no. Last week the Hornets fired their general manager in part, some believe, because he was just kicking the tires on Paul's value. As it stands now, the only way Paul is getting out of there is by demanding a trade.

Q: Hey, Brian: What was Miami's motivation for requesting sign- and-trades with both Toronto and Cleveland? It seems like they are giving up assets, future cap flexibility and increasing payroll to avoid pay inequity between the star players. -- Steve Cornelius, Avon Lake

A: Hey, Steve: You've got it. Considering the three stars were willing to take less than the max to enable the Heat to sign other free agents, it was a way to get them some of the money back.

Q: Hey, Brian: How sheltered is LeBron James to the massive multi-city fall out? While Dan Gilbert's comments could not be hidden, how ignorant is LeBron to the rest of the world? Does his team hide the headlines from Chicago, New York and Cleveland from him? Has he ever legitimately been criticized in his life like this? I wonder how he will react during his trips to Chicago, New York and ultimately Cleveland. Will he be shocked? -- Clay Pollman, Cape Coral, Fla.

A: Hey, Clay: James knows and obviously doesn't seem to care. At least, right now.

Q: Hey, Brian: LeBron James said he wanted to do what was best for his family. How is taking less money and making his whole family move away from their home doing what is "best" for them? -- Franklin Thompson, Akron

A: Hey, Franklin: Everyone has their own definition of that, I suppose. I do know that after he had his girlfriend, mother and children at the MVP ceremony in Akron in May, none were seen at "The Decision" show or his arrival in Miami.

Q: Hey, Brian: Why has nobody in the media asked LeBron James why he did not let Dan Gilbert know his intentions personally before he went on national TV with "The Decision?" -- Chris Mansuy, Orlando, Fla.

dan gilbert.jpgView full sizeCavaliers owner Dan Gilbert shouldn't have trouble signing free agents despite his tirade against LeBron James because, ultimately, it's money that gets the final word.

A: Hey, Chris: James has not permitted the national media or the media that covered him in Cleveland to ask him any questions yet. Jim Gray might have asked but he had to get the question about James' nail-biting habits in. Though on the exclusive interview on James' website we did learn what his favorite cupcake is when Gray asked.

Q: Hey, Brian: Are the two first-round picks that were picked up from the Miami Heat beginning no earlier than 2013 and continuing through 2017 lottery protected? -- Mike Francischiello, Willoughby

A: Hey, Mike: Excellent question. The 2013 and '15 picks are protected from being traded to the Cavs if they are in the top 10. That protection lasts for two years on each pick and then the picks are unprotected.

Q: Hey, Brian: Would the Cavs have any interest in Richard Jefferson for the upcoming season or two? --Mike Delaney, Mansfield

A: Hey, Mike: Jefferson certainly has interest in the Cavs, who have contacted him. However, after leaving $15 million on the table to get away from the Spurs for no good reason, he's looking for a long-term contact that the Cavs aren't interested in at the moment.

Q: Hey, Brian: Do you think Dan Gilbert hurt the Cavs' chances to sign a free agent with his tirade? Should he apologize? -- Cody, Erie, Pa.

A: Hey, Cody: It took many players aback but in free agency money usually talks. Example? Last week Kyle Lowry wrote on his Twitter page that he was shocked at Gilbert's letter. Then four days later he signed an offer sheet with the Cavs.

Q: Hey, Brian: What are the odds the Cavs would go high risk/ reward and make a trade for Gilbert Arenas? -- Christopher Sandman, Cleveland

A: Hey, Christopher: The Cavs discussed it to a certain degree before James left. Now, however, tying up the salary cap for the next four years with that contract, considering Arenas' injury history, would seem a major risk they're not likely to take.

Q: Hey, Brian: Can you explain how after the Heat signed the top three players to near max contracts, they are now signing players like Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller? -- Fred Fields, Euclid

A: Hey, Fred: First, Pat Riley had a long-term plan, is very smart and cleared the most cap space in NBA history. Second, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James are basically paying Miller and Haslem by accepting less than market-value max. It was like intrateam revenue sharing, saving the owner money and costing the players, which did not make the union happy. As for Ilgauskas, he signed a minimum contract for $1.4 million. Teams over the salary cap have the option of signing as many minimum players as they want. Not only that, the league pays a portion of those minimum contracts.

-- Brian

Got a Cavaliers question? Send it in. Submit your question at cleveland.com/heybrian, and Plain Dealer Cavs beat writer Brian Windhorst will choose at least one to answer each Sunday here in the Sports section. All of Brian's answers are archived online.

It was after LeBron James signed with Miami Heat that he really burned the Cleveland Cavaliers

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James immediately begins aggressively recruiting other NBA free agents to join the Heat, leaving the Cavaliers wondering . . . where was this effort while he was in Cleveland?

lebron james.jpgView full sizeLeBron James would make no promises to players the Cavaliers were trying to recruit to Cleveland, but now he's taking an active role in trying to bring players to Miami.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Many people described LeBron James going on national television to announce his divorce from the Cavaliers as pouring salt in a new wound.

That may be how many fans feel but the salt to the Cavs in the entire ordeal was not the TV show. That came in the ensuing 10 days when they saw the type of contract James signed, and his actions after he left Greenwich, Conn.

When James signed his last contract with the Cavs, as is well-known, he opted to take less than the maximum contract and settled for three years so that he would be a free agent this summer. Though that may seem like a long time, from a development standpoint in the NBA, it isn't.

The Cavs were "on the clock" as it were, especially during the past two seasons as it was obvious teams like the Knicks, Nets and Heat were clearing cap space to get ready for a shot at James. The team bet "short" on a lot of roster moves in an effort to keep the team as competitive as possible at that instant.

This included making trades for older players like Ben Wallace, Shaquille O'Neal and Antawn Jamison, all deals that James pushed for because he wanted to win a title as soon as possible.

zydrunas-ilgauskas.jpgView full sizeZydrunas Ilgauskas is heading to Miami after talking with LeBron James.

During the past two summers when free agents the Cavs were interested in called James, he was non-committal about his future. He hoped players would come play with him but he was not on the front of the recruiting lines. He was also unwilling to give any sign he was going to be in Cleveland long term.

These tactics cost the Cavs several players, most notably Trevor Ariza last summer, who did not sign with the Cavs after not getting a commitment from James.

Like leaving in free agency, this is absolutely James' right as a premier player. Forcing his team to spend money and stay competitive in the short term is him looking out for his best interests. The Cavs gladly accepted the gamble and nearly every other team in the league would have accepted the same circumstances to have a player like James.

But then James signed a six-year contract with the Heat and instantly began recruiting other free agents. He called up former teammates Zydrunas Ilgauskas and Jawad Williams.

Ilgauskas signed a free-agent contract with the Miami Heat on Saturday and will now play for a team other than the Cavaliers for the first time in his NBA career.

James also pitched friend Mike Miller. He waited at the airport for Derek Fisher's private jet to land so he could make a personal plea for him to come to Miami.

There's probably been a lot more that has not become public.

Again, this is of course his right and prerogative. A star player should want players to come to his team. And now that he's signed for six years, the free agents are comfortable in coming. It is no wonder Miller signed for five years.

What the Cavs want to know is why, despite doing everything James asked and attempting to trade for as many top players as they could, they were not afforded anywhere near the same opportunity as James is already giving a team he's been with for less than two weeks.

In his comments in ESPN's "Sunday Conversation" last weekend, James blamed Cavs owner Dan Gilbert for not considering the long term.

What the Cavs wanted to scream at the TV and have been seething about privately all during the Vegas Summer League is how could they when James himself had them shackled to the short term.

Dribbles

• It seems like it might just be a matter of time before the Cavs and the Minnesota Timberwolves make some sort of trade. What type of trade is still under discussion. Over the past several weeks the Cavs have talked to the Wolves about since-traded Al Jefferson and point guard Jonny Flynn, who Minnesota does not want to trade.

Two Wolves currently on the block, though, interest the Cavs. One is guard Ramon Sessions, made available when Minnesota signed Luke Ridnour last week. The other is young center and Canton native Kosta Koufos. The 7-footer who played at Ohio State was sent to Minnesota from Utah in the trade for Jefferson and the Wolves want to move him now. The Cavs are in the market for at least one developmental big man now that it seems clear Sasha Kaun will remain in Russia for another year.

Danny Green has had an up-and-down summer league. New coach Byron Scott and assistant Paul Pressey are impressed with Green's fundamentals and his ability to do a lot of different things on the floor. But with Scott's offense, both guards on the floor are needed to push the tempo and distribute on the fast break. Green has struggled with this, turning the ball over in bunches at times, and it is unclear how he'll fit in the new system.

"Danny is a solid player, He does all the little things so far," Pressey said. "His learning curve has to pick up a little faster because this is his second year going around. He's got to really get engaged to be a higher level on the floor."

Green has a non-guaranteed contract for next season and certainly is already feeling the pressure. He knows that how he improves between now and training camp may determine his future with the team.

"This is big for me, it will dictate what will happen in the season," Green said. "I'm trying to get to know the new staff and the system and I hope it can carry over to the season."

Two players who have made a positive impact during summer league are free agents Tasmin Mitchell and Pooh Jeter. Mitchell is a 6-7 forward more suited to play power forward but is the size of most NBA small forwards. That is why the four-year star at LSU didn't get drafted. But it is easy to see why he averaged 16 points and nine rebounds in the SEC last season despite being undersized.

Mitchell works hard on the floor and has excellent rebounding fundamentals. He also knows where to be on defense. His numbers in Vegas aren't stunning but he's very much in the running to get an invitation to training camp in September.

"I like his energy, he comes with it every night," Pressey said. "He's aggressive, sometimes maybe too aggressive, but I'll take that. He has the skill level to play small forward and power forward, the question is whether he can guard [small forwards] at some point."

Jeter is a spark plug who has done a fantastic job running the new up-tempo offense. Plus he's shown off a good shooting touch, including nailing a 3-pointer at the buzzer to win a game for the Cavs on Friday night. The issue as Jeter has tried to get into the league is that he's 5-11.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: bwindhorst@plaind.com, 216-999-5166

Cleveland Gladiators grab a victory, lose an AFL playoff spot

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Cleveland defeats Oklahoma City, 44-39, but is officially eliminated from playoff contention because of Milwaukee's victory over Orlando.

cleveland gladiators.jpgView full sizeThe Gladiators' Victor Williams runs in for the game-winning touchdown Saturday against the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz at Quicken Loans Arena. The Gladiators won, 44-39.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Arena Football League fans typically don't pay to see defense, but 7,682 fans at The Q got their money's worth Saturday night.

Cleveland's defense forced five turnovers and propped up a stumbling offense long enough for quarterback John Dutton to throw a 45-yard touchdown pass to Victor Williams with 47 seconds remaining to beat the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz, 44-39.

"Our defense stepped up. That's what you got to rely on sometimes," Dutton said. "It could have gone either way in this one. They could have blown us out with the way we played on offense, and we should have blown them out with the way they played on offense."

Despite the win, Cleveland (7-8) officially was eliminated from playoff contention because of Milwaukee's victory over Orlando. The Gladiators are off next week and close the season at home July 31 against Milwaukee.

Cleveland forced four straight turnovers in the first half, including Davion Mitchell causing one fumble and recovering another. However, the Gladiators' lone score in that span was a 41-yard fumble return by Mike Bragg.

"We knew we had to step up big time with two of our starting receivers down, and we knew we could do it against that offense," Mitchell said. "We knew what we were doing. We knew what they were going to run, and it caused confusion for them."

cleveland gladiators 2.jpgView full sizeGladiators defenders take down Oklahoma City's Timon Marshall in the second quarter Saturday.

Cleveland's offensive issues can be traced to last week's season-ending leg injuries suffered by receivers Ben Nelson (47 TDs) and Chris Johnson (14 TDs).

Nelson's hands and presence in the end zone were sorely missed. Dutton didn't have the same chemistry with the replacements, Jermaine Lewis and Williams, though each caught two TD passes. Dutton completed 15 of 35 passes for 242 yards.

"The timing was off pretty much the whole night," coach Steve Thonn said.

Cleveland stumbled at the outset, falling behind, 13-0. Sparking a comeback was Brent Holmes' 55-yard touchdown return off a missed field goal attempt for a 14-13 Gladiators lead.

They held the Yard Dawgz scoreless until the final play of the first half, at which point Cleveland led, 21-19.

Levy Brown's fourth interception in the past five games in the third quarter gave Cleveland more breathing room as Dutton threw touchdown passes to Lewis and Williams for a 35-27 lead.

The Yard Dawgz took a 39-38 lead with 1:00 remaining on backup QB Xavier Lee's 8-yard pass to Timon Marshall.

Oklahoma City (6-8) is 1-6 on the road.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: twarsinskey@plaind.com, 216-999-4661

Terry Pluto's Talkin' . . . about the Cleveland Browns defense, Mel Turpin, and kids' reaction to LeBron James' departure

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There are some signs the Browns might finally have a chance to improve their running defense, says Terry Pluto.

Cleveland Browns lose to Bears, 30-6View full sizeAhtyba Rubin, above, played well at nose tackle last season, which might let the Browns move Shaun Rogers to an end and could strengthen the defensive line overall.

ABOUT THE BROWNS . . .

1. Desperately needing a break from All LeBron, All the Time, I was wondering if the Browns actually could stop the run this season. Since they returned in 1999, their average rank against the run is . . . 29! That's also what they ranked last season. They have never ranked higher than 23rd (2003), the next best being 27th. In the past six years, the rankings are 29-28-27-29-30-32. How's that for consistency?

2. Can this change? Hey, why not? Hey, D'Qwell Jackson forced the first fumble of his four-year pro career in 2009, so anything is possible. (That note comes from dawgsbynature.com.) The possibility that Jackson won't be doing heavy duty is a reason to believe the run defense could improve.

3. It starts on the line, where Ahtyba Rubin made an impact at nose tackle after Shaun Rogers was injured. If Rogers can adapt to playing one of the ends in the 3-4 defense -- with Rubin in the middle and Robaire Smith at the other end -- that has to be positive. It's especially true as the Browns have some depth on the line with veterans Kenyon Coleman and C.J. Mosley. While some fans are high on seventh-rounder Cliff Geathers, free agent Brian Schaefering is more likely to help on the line.

4. In Eric Mangini's three years with the Jets, they ranked 7-29-24 against the run. So he and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan need to find a way to make the mass of linebackers effective. Last season, they started Eric Barton, David Bowens, Kamerion Wimbley and Jackson at linebacker. This season, Bowens may be the only starter in that group. They added veterans Scott Fujita, Chris Gocong and Matt Roth (who played only six games in 2009). They have Jason Trusnik, Marcus Benard and David Veikune, who the Browns say is progressing.

5. I know none of the linebackers is Clay Matthews or even Galen Fiss. But when the Browns started Bowens at inside linebacker with Rubin at nose tackle last season, the run defense improved. In the final five games with those two in the lineup, the Browns allowed 44 fewer yards on the ground than they did in the first 11 games. Even more important, they gave up 13 rushing touchdowns in the first 11 games -- but only two in the final five.

6. Yes, you can say the vast improvement of the Browns' running game with Jerome Harrison in the final weeks helped the defense by keeping it off the field. But the Browns' defense still had to keep the opposition out of the end zone.

7. Another reason the run defense should be better is that Sheldon Brown, a solid tackler, will start at cornerback instead of Brandon McDonald, a terrible tackler. First-rounder Joe Haden is supposed to be a strong tackler at cornerback. Rookie safeties Larry Asante and T.J. Ward are supposed to be run-stoppers.

8. Yes, there are a lot of "supposed to be's" in this analysis, but the Browns at least have more players on defense for coaches to employ. As last season progressed, Ryan used more variety on defense with as many as six linebackers on the field. All of this has to add up to a better ranking than 29th against the run, doesn't it? Please?

ABOUT MEL TURPIN . . .

1. Former Cavalier Melvin Turpin died last week of what the Fayette County (Ky.) corner's office described as a "self-inflicted gunshot wound." It's a sad ending for Turpin, who played with the Cavs from 1984 to '87. His NBA career lasted five years, ending with Washington in 1990. He averaged 8.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and shot 52 percent. Turpin was 49.

mel turpin.jpgView full sizeFormer Cavalier Melvin Turpin, shown in 1986.

2. Ralph Brislin e-mailed about Turpin. They worked for the same security company: "Mel came to Cleveland [about three years ago]. We drove out to the cornfield where the Richfield Coliseum used to be. Mel regaled us with stories of sneaking out of the Holiday Inn in Richfield during training camp and going to the Dairy Queen for footlong hot dogs. We met his new wife, who had taught him in school. She is very ill. . . . He was a gentle giant, a kind man who battled demons in his life."

3. Turpin was drafted by Washington with the sixth overall pick of the 1984 draft. The Bullets, as they were known then, traded him to the Cavs on draft day for Tim McCormick and Cliff Robinson. They knew the 7-footer had weight problems. He was fined nearly $100,000 one season because he failed to make the weight clauses in his contract. I covered the Cavs during that time for the Akron Beacon Journal, and Turpin was a nice man who was very insecure and turned to food to deal with his fears.

4. Cavs broadcaster Joe Tait said he recalls seeing Turpin and Dirk Minniefield "eating cold chili dogs left over from the night before when we'd get to the airport at 5 a.m. That was back when we would fly commercial, and those guys would wander around the airport, looking for leftovers."

5. Tait remembered Turpin "always smiling, always good natured." He also believed, "Melvin was dealing with some stuff inside that he didn't want people to see." Turpin was an easy target for those who wanted to make fun of him off the court or intimidate him on the floor. He had nicknames such as "Dinner Bell Mel," which he accepted with a smile. "The players called him 'Turp The Burp,' " Tait said.

6. Turpin had remarkably agile hands and a soft shooting touch on a midrange jumper, and could have been a very good pro had he remained in shape, which seldom was the case. He could have played in the NBA for a dozen years if that had been his real desire.

7. According to a Sports Illustrated story in 2004, Turpin was working for a Nissan dealership in Lexington, Ky. He "weighed 350 pounds." I also heard that he was a prison guard in Illinois for a few years in the 1990s. He had a painful divorce not long after leaving the NBA. According to news reports, Turpin's second wife, Kerry, had heart problems and three surgeries in recent years. Turpin was a diabetic, according to the story. His wife was still hospitalized, recovering from a stroke, at the time of his death.

8. Turpin's son, Kiel, is a 7-footer who played for Lincoln College in the National Junior College Division II title game. He played one season and is being recruited by Kentucky, Louisville and other majors schools. According to news reports, he grew 6 inches as a high school senior. He weighs only 205 pounds.

ABOUT LeBRON, THE BIG PICTURE . . .

1. Dave Georgevich e-mailed about his 12-year-old son who asked, "What should I do with my jersey?" after LeBron James signed with Miami. He finally told his son: "Keep it. If you want to wear it, then go wear it."

2. Then Brian Rosen e-mailed me with a great idea. The Winking Lizard, along with Rosen's website LandLoyalty.com, are starting a clothing drive called "As LeBron Goes, So Do Our Clothes." The Winking Lizard restaurants will be collecting LeBron James clothing to be donated to Northeast Ohio charities. They'll take other clothes, too. But make sure the items are clean and in excellent shape. The clothing drive runs through Aug. 1.

3. Tony Ciuprinskas e-mailed, "As parents, how do we explain to our children that a person they looked up to as a role model . . . now has defaced everything he said was important to him?" Tony surely knows parents are the real role models, not athletes. Those closest to children -- parents, siblings, relatives, friends -- have the most impact.

4. I loved sports as a kid and it was at the center of my relationship with my father. But it is the voice of Tom Pluto, who died in 1997 and last spoke in 1993 when he had a stroke, that still lives in my head -- not any athlete. It's also men such as former Benedictine High School coach Augie Bossu and teachers such as Susan Gorsky, Jim Muth, Phil Hodanbosi and the Rev. Dominic Mondzelewski who had far greater impact than any athlete. And no one could show me such unconditional love as my mother, Mary, and my grandparents.

5. This is a good time to talk to kids about who really matters in life. It's not what athletes say or how they act. It's the people who are closest to us, the people we really know. It's also a good time to talk about what matters most -- staying at home versus leaving for more money, fame, etc. And then talking about how there are times when we may have to move.

6. Larry Beers e-mailed about replacing the James mural downtown. He suggested the Browns, Indians and Cavs get together for a mural honoring the fans -- a sampling of regular Northeast Ohio people wearing the caps, shirts and jackets of the teams. I like that idea. I even would like something that says "CLEVELAND" and has nothing to do with sports. In this region, we are more than our teams and athletes. But Beers is moving this discussion in the right direction.

7. Georgevich opened this discussion with his 12-year-old son. He ended his e-mail by reporting that he asked his son, "Who's your favorite player?" The son quickly said, "Mo Williams."

THREE AND OUT . . .

1. David Rainer e-mailed to take issue with my story about the Lorain County Ironmen of the Prospect League. His main point is that the team was around in 2009 as the North Coast Knights. He was the co-owner. He added: "Josh Hayes, a young man of 24, did absolutely everything to bring wooden-bat baseball to the area, tried to get support from your paper to promote the Prospect League . . . I see your column, and as you can imagine, it upset me . . . Everything that is in place, I repeat, everything, is the tireless result of Josh Hayes' work prior to the 2009 North Coast Knights."

2. I have no doubt that what Rainer says is correct. The point of my story was simply that it seems like a fun league with two former Indians (Kevin Rhomberg and Joe Charboneau) in the front office. I also like the idea of wooden bats. It was not designed to put down Mr. Hayes or anyone else who came before this season.

3. I will be speaking at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Orange branch of the Cuyahoga County Library, 31300 Chagrin Blvd., Pepper Pike. Admission is free, and I'll be glad to sign books.


Mark Shapiro made mistake in letting Charlie Manuel go in 2002: Paul Hoynes' Rant of the Week

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Manuel and Shapiro were not a match made in heaven. Still, the Indians GM should have recognized the positives with Manuel instead of firing him during the 2002 season.

charlie manuel.jpgView full sizeThings have worked out pretty well for former Indians manager Charlie Manuel, who has won a World Series with the Phillies and won two pennants.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Impatient as human beings are, time is the still the best evaluator. It doesn't matter in what field of endeavor decisions are made, time decides the winners and losers.

At the All-Star break in 2002, Indians manager Charlie Manuel went to see General Manager Mark Shapiro about his job status. Manuel was in the last year of his contract; Shapiro was in his first year as general manager.

Manuel is from Virginia, talks with a drawl and signed his first pro baseball contract right out of high school. Shapiro is an Ivy League-educated football player who inherited Manuel from the previous GM. They were not a match made in heaven.

When Manuel met with Shapiro, Manuel said he wanted to know where he stood in terms of managing the Indians beyond 2002. Shapiro said he wasn't ready to make that decision until the end of the year. That wasn't good enough for Manuel. The conversation deteriorated, and Manuel was fired.

After the season, Shapiro hired Eric Wedge. Wedge embarked on a seven-year managerial run that produced one trip to the postseason under the cash-strapped ownership of Larry Dolan. Manuel didn't manage again until 2005, when he took over the primed-to-win and well-funded Philadelphia Phillies. He's in his sixth year and has taken them to one World Series title, two pennants and three division titles. On Tuesday, Manuel led the National League to its first victory in the All-Star Game in 13 years.

Manuel fired himself when he forced Shapiro's hand during that 2002 All-Star break meeting. He was fortunate he got another chance to Manage, and he's made the most of it.

Shapiro didn't recognize what he had in Manuel, and he should have. Shapiro worked with him in the Indians' minor-league system. He watched him lead the Indians to a 90-victory season in 2000 and a division title in 2001. Every general manager has the right to pick his own manager, but Shapiro made the wrong choice in that situation.

Cincinnati Reds emerge from All-Star break confident: Major League Baseball Insider

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The Indians will need a guardian angel to get back in the American League Central race in the second half. The Cincinnati Reds, who came out of the All-Star break in first place in the National League Central, are in a much better position to reach the postseason.

brandon phillips.jpgView full sizeFormer Indian Brandon Phillips (4), now an All-Star second baseman with the Reds, believes Cincinnati is good enough to win its division this season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Manny Acta told the Indians to live the impossible dream at Thursday's workout at Progressive Field to the start the second half of the season. They were 34-54 and trailed the first-place Chicago White Sox by 15 1/2 games in the American League Central.

Acta was doing his job, trying to reinvigorate the youngest 25-man roster in the big leagues for the final 74 games.

A five-hour drive due south, Dusty Baker didn't have to put the wind back in anyone's sails. The Cincinnati Reds came out of the break in first place in the National League Central with a one-game lead over St. Louis.

The Reds don't need a miracle, they just need to keep winning.

"We're good enough to win the whole division," said second baseman Brandon Phillips, one of four Reds at the All-Star Game. "Our pitching staff is getting Edinson [Volquez] back. [Aroldis] Chapman is coming.

"We're going to be that good. The only team that can beat us is ourselves."

The Reds went into Saturday's game against Colorado in first place because of a dangerous offense and a pitching staff that has not only been better than expected, but deeper.

They led the National League in runs, batting average, total bases and OPS at the break. They ranked second in homers.

Joey Votto and Jonny Gomes had 60 RBI each at the break. Scott Rolen (57), Drew Stubbs (43), Jay Bruce (36), Orlando Cabrera (31) and Phillips (30) followed.

Phillips, who spent most of the first half hitting first or second after hitting in the middle of the lineup last season, led the team with 66 runs. Votto had 59; Bruce, 50; Stubbs, 47; Rolen, 43; and Cabrera, 41.

"When spring training hit, I ended up hitting first and second," Phillips said. "My whole routine was changed.

"Now I feel I'm a Jimmy Rollins and a Jose Reyes to the Cincinnati Reds. My job is to get things started. Get things moving. It's a beautiful thing."

The Reds have a nice blend of veterans and youth. Toronto traded Rolen, 35, to Cincinnati in July 2009. The third baseman started the second half hitting .290 with 17 homers.

Rolen had an immediate influence on Phillips. That is to say on Phillips' home run trot.

"He said, 'Hey, BP, if I get hit for you pimping a home run, trust me, you and me are going to have a talk,' " Phillips said. "I said, 'That's all I need to know.' That's a lot of material over there [Rolen is 6-4 and 250 pounds]. I want to stay on his good side."

The Reds signed Cabrera, 35, as a free agent in February to play shortstop. He's hitting .245 with three homers and 10 steals.

"He's the kind of guy who is loud and calls guys out," said Votto, selected to the All-Star Game thanks to the fans' Internet votes. "He really blows people up, but in the right context. I've never had that before.

"That to me is invaluable. It breaks up the tension . . . brings the team together. We play better baseball that way."

Volquez rejoined the rotation over the weekend and started Saturday night. He's been out since last August because of Tommy John surgery on his right elbow. During that time, he served a 50-game suspension for testing positive for a banned substance.

Volquez, Bronson Arroyo (10-4), Johnny Cueto (8-2) and Aaron Harang (6-7) are the experienced part of the rotation. Harang is sidelined with back spasms.

Rookie Mike Leake, without the benefit of an inning in the minors, went 6-1 with a 3.53 ERA in the first half. Travis Wood, another rookie, retired 24 straight Phillies in his third big-league start.

Former No. l pick Homer Bailey is on the disabled list, and Cuban defector Chapman is at Class AAA Louisville, getting ready to help in the second half.

Closer Francisco Cordero had 24 saves in 30 chances in the first half. The Reds' 26 saves ranked second in the NL, but they're looking for relief help and Indians closer Kerry Wood has been mentioned.

"We're doing the small things, and that's why we're winning," Phillips said.

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

It's another season of change as Cleveland Browns approach opening of training camp: Analysis

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Plain Dealer beat writer Tony Grossi tells you what to expect as the opening of training camp rapidly approaches.

delhomme-ota-mccoy-jk.jpgView full sizeMeet quarterback Jake Delhomme (17), the projected starter and one of three new quarterbacks on the Cleveland Browns' roster, including third-round draft pick Colt McCoy (background).

CLEVELAND, Ohio — In 14 days, the Browns will walk onto the field in Berea for their first practice of training camp. It's the official beginning of another new era. In a strange twist, the only major component remaining from last season is the coaching staff.

There's a new president (Mike Holmgren), a new general manager (Tom Heckert), three new quarterbacks, new running backs and a new tight end, plus potentially a totally revamped defensive secondary.

When the Browns were last on the field completing coach Eric Mangini's off- season program with a minicamp in June, the team was brimming with optimism about building off the four-game winning streak that ended last season.

Hello, my name is . . .

For the first time in memory, the Browns are breaking in three new quarterbacks at the same time. Former Carolina Panthers folk hero Jake Delhomme ($7 million in guarantees in 2010) is the starter. Seneca Wallace, Holmgren's quarterback insurance blanket for seven seasons in Seattle, is the backup and potential trigger of a new gimmick package with Josh Cribbs. The young hope is Texas farm boy and Longhorns record-holder Colt McCoy, who, remember, was not drafted in the third round to play in 2010, according to Holmgren. The lone holdover at the position is Brett Ratliff, a Mangini prodigy from the Jets who disappointed his coach with a poor preseason in 2009. Whoever is introduced on opening day -- barring something unforeseen, bank on Delhomme -- will be the team's ninth different Game 1 starter in 12 seasons.

Jerome Harrison.jpgView full sizeJerome Harrison probably will begin camp as the second string running back.

Running back by committee . . .

Despite smashing two franchise records, posting the third-highest rushing game in NFL history and totaling 561 yards in his last three games last season, Jerome Harrison probably begins camp as the No. 2 back behind rookie Montario Hardesty. The second-round pick from Tennessee took advantage of Harrison's absence from most of the off-season practices and impressed coaches with his running ability, instincts and knowledge of the position. Newcomer Peyton Hillis, acquired in the Brady Quinn trade with Denver, also figures in the mix. Considering Hardesty's well-chronicled knee problems, the Browns are likely to follow the NFL trend of using multiple backs. But somebody has to be the feature back and Hardesty and Harrison should battle for the role.

Receivers who are 3s and 4s . . .

No position on the Browns gets less respect externally than wide receiver. Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll has used it as motivation, referring to the receiving corps of Mohamed Massaquoi, Brian Robiskie, Josh Cribbs and Chansi Stuckey as a bunch of "3s and 4s," meaning, nobody regards them as No. 1 or No. 2 receivers on a contending team. Daboll was on the New England staff when similarly regarded Deion Branch, David Givens and Troy Brown helped take the Patriots to a Super Bowl championship. After months of perusing the list of unsigned veterans, the team recently added Bobby Engram, 37, who started on Holmgren's Super Bowl team in Seattle.

Righting the offensive line . . .

The quest to form a solid offensive front from left to right seemingly is endless. After doling out big bucks in free agency in 2009 to veterans Floyd Womack and John St. Clair, the Browns made two more additions this year. They signed ex-Raven Tony Pashos in free agency and drafted Arizona State's Shawn Lauvao in the third round. Pashos was signed to start at right tackle. Lauvao will compete with Womack to start at right guard. Left guard Eric Steinbach, one of a handful of NFL starting offensive linemen under 300 pounds and thought to be a potential casualty because of a $5.75 million salary, would appear to be safe another year. The absence of a salary cap certainly helps Steinbach.

Suspensions on defensive line looming . . .

In the span of five months, end Robaire Smith and nose tackle Shaun Rogers were arrested in separate incidents for having a loaded gun in a bag in an airport. Each could face NFL suspensions under terms of the league personal conduct policy. The league is reviewing the cases. One or both could miss a game or two. If both are suspended, depth in the early games can be a problem -- unless rookie behemoths Clifton Geathers and Kwaku Danso defy the odds and develop quickly in training camp.

Shakeup at linebacker . . .

Last year's starters in Game 1 were Kamerion Wimbley, Eric Barton, D'Qwell Jackson and David Bowens. A year later, who would have guessed Bowens would be the only one to retain his status on the team? Wimbley was traded to Oakland, Barton's playing future is uncertain after a neck injury and Jackson's playing time could be in danger. With an emphasis on "position versatility," the names to watch are Matt Roth, Scott Fujita, Chris Gocong and Jason Trusnik. There are also three developmental LBs entering their second season -- David Veikune, Kaluka Maiava and Marcus Benard. This position forms the nucleus of the linebacker-centric defensive system of Mangini and coordinator Rob Ryan.

More than a secondary concern . . .

In 2009, the Browns were a respectable seventh in sacks per pass play and 29th in interceptions. Translation: The secondary was unbearably bad. Whoosh! In came Heckert-favorite Sheldon Brown from Philadelphia and three picks in the draft -- cornerback Joe Haden in the first round and safeties T.J. Ward and Larry Asante in the second and fifth rounds. Actions speak loudly. All the newcomers are being counted on to contribute immediately. Returning safeties Abram Elam and Mike Adams will warm their seats until Ward and Asante are ready. Haden -- if he's as good as Heckert believes -- could challenge Eric Wright for a starting job fairly soon. Forget about seeing Brown, 30, converted full time to safety. That's not going to happen.

Stop the drama . . .

Rookie contract holdouts are always a possibility, but they seem woefully out of date in these tough economic times, especially with the league embroiled in a global labor dispute that could prompt an owners' lockout in 2011. No doubt, Haden will be the last Browns' draft pick to sign. No matter how much time in camp he may miss, he's not going to hold up the team's development. Kicker Phil Dawson, who has been unhappy with his contract situation, elected not to boycott the mandatory minicamp in June, so it's doubtful he would do so at training camp -- where team fines can be greater. The absence of a quarterback "competition" should be a refreshing change.

Keep the dates . . .

First team practice open to the public: July 31, 8:45 a.m. and 5:45 p.m.

Practices closed to public: Aug. 3, Aug. 8, Aug. 11, Aug. 18.

First look in simulated game: Aug. 7, Family Day Scrimmage at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Parking is $5 in Port Authority Lots, but no ticket is needed to get inside.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: tgrossi@plaind.com, 216-999-4670

Cleveland Indians drop Anderson Hernandez; Choo will test thumb at Class AA Akron

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To make room for right-hander Jeanmar Gomez, infielder Anderdson Hernandez was designated for assignment. Shin-Soo Choo and Asdrubal Cabrera getting closer to being activated.

CLEVELAND,  Ohio -- Infielder Anderson Hernandez was designated for assignment before Sunday's game. The Indians needed the roster spot for right-hander Jeanmar Gomez, who is making his big-league debut today against Detrolit.

Hernandez said he'd report to Class AAA Columbus if he clears waivers.  He's hitting .246 (15-for-61) with three doubles and two RBI in 22 games.

In other news, right fielder Shin-Soo Choo took 50 swings in batting practice Sunday morning to test his sprained right thumb. Choo said he'll go on a three-game rehab assignment to Class AA Akron starting Monday.

If that goes well, he could be activated Friday when the Indians return home to play Tampa Bay.

Asdrubal Cabrera, recovering from a broken left forearm, will report to Akron on Monday as well. He could be activated at the end of the week along with Choo. 

"I'll play two more games in Akron and see what happens then," said Cabrera. "My arm is the most important thing and that feels good."

Cabrera has played five games, two at Class A Mahoning Valley and three at Akron.

 

 

Peralta-powered Indians lead Tigers, 5-2, through six: Cleveland Indians briefing

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Jhonny Peralta hit an inside-the-park homer in the first inning to give the Indians a 3-0 lead over Detroit. The advantage was 5-2 through six.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- This is a daily briefing of the Indians' 2010 regular season. The Tribe plays host to the Tigers in the finale of a four-game series at Progressive Field.

Pitching matchup: Indians RHP Jeanmar Gomez (---) vs. Tigers LHP Andy Oliver (0-3, 6.38 ERA)

In-game updates:

The Indians led the Tigers, 5-2, through six innings.

Brace yourself for news you never thought you would hear from the ballpark....  

Jhonny Peralta hit a three-run inside-the-park homer in the first inning for a 3-0 advantage. It is the first such homer by an Indian since Grady Sizemore did it on April 27, 2007, against Baltimore.

Yes, it's true: Peralta, not exactly fleet afoot, went the unconventional route for a long ball.

The Indians have hit six inside-the-park homers at Progressive Field. Opponents have hit two.

With two outs, Peralta blasted Oliver's 0-1 pitch to deep center. Ryan Raburn, subbing for Austin Jackson, tracked it to the wall and leaped. His timing was off, though, and the ball caromed away. Raburn crashed through the Indians' bullpen gate.

By the time left fielder Brennan Boesch retrieved, Peralta was rumbling into third. Tribe third-base coach Steve Smith pinwheeled and Peralta made it easily. Peralta slid, but didn't need to do so. The throw was high.

Peralta returned to the lineup after being out Friday and Saturday because of a fever. He had not played since last Sunday in Tampa Bay.

The Indians made it 5-0 in the fourth. Jason Donald had an RBI grounder and Tigers third baseman Don Kelly threw wildly to first on Michael Brantley's grounder, allowing Trevor Crowe to score.

The Tribe eventually loaded the bases with two outs. Reliever Eddie Bonine got Austin Kearns to line to third on a full-count pitch.   

Carlos Santana was 0-for-0 with three walks through five. He has 31 walks in his first 33 major-league games.

Oliver lasted 3 2/3 innings.

Gomez is dealing. He allowed two hits -- one tainted.

Gomez struck out Miguel Cabrera looking to end the fourth. Cabrera squawked about the call by Mike Muchlinski, gesturing that the pitch was outside.

Pregame notes:

The Indians (37-54) seek a four-game sweep. They won a day-night doubleheader Saturday, the first game beginning just after 1 p.m. and the second game ending just after midnight.

Detroit (48-41) is 16-28 on the road.

The Indians designated infielder Anderson Hernandez for assignment to make room for Gomez.

Gomez was promoted from Class AAA Columbus for the spot start. He is making his major-league debut.

Oliver graduated from Vermilion High School. He has made four major-league starts.

The Tribe has eight right-handed hitters in the lineup. Righties are 16-for-46 (.348) against Oliver in the majors.

Jhonny Peralta has returned after being sidelined Friday and Saturday because of a fever. He starts at third and bats fifth. Andy Marte, who was outstanding defensively as Peralta's sub, moves to first. Matt LaPorta will DH.

Travis Hafner did not start the second game Saturday and is available off the bench today. He is dealing with upper-back discomfort.

Lineups:

Tigers -- 1. Don Kelly 3b; 2. Johnny Damon dh; 3. Magglio Ordonez rf; 4. Miguel Cabrera 1b; 5. Brennan Boesch lf; 6. Carlos Guillen 2b; 7. Ryan Raburn cf; 8. Gerald Laird c; 9. Danny Worth ss; and Oliver.

Indians -- 1. Michael Brantley cf; 2. Jayson Nix 2b; 3. Carlos Santana c; 4. Austin Kearns rf; 5. Jhonny Peralta 3b; 6. Matt LaPorta dh; 7. Trevor Crowe lf; 8. Andy Marte 1b; 9. Jason Donald ss; and Gomez.

Umpires: P -- Mike Muchlinski; 1b -- Jerry Layne; 2b -- James Hoye; 3b -- Brian Runge.

 

 

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