Leadoff with Lee 8.7.14

-The newest members of the Cavs were introduced Wednesday. Mike Miller and James Jones made it official at Cleveland Clinic Courts yesterday. Miller has reportedly signed a 2-year deal with a player option for the 2nd worth $5.5 million dollars. James Jones agreed to a league minimum for 1 for $1.45 million dollars. Ray Allen is still contemplating retirement or one more season. LBJ, Jones and Miller are involved with the recruiting of Allen. But they know Ray Allen will do what's best for himself and his family first. That leaves the door open to sign "The Matrix" Shawn Marion. Marion is expected to pass on a contract offer by the Indiana Pacers to sign with the Cavs.

-The Golden State Warriors have signed Ohio State point guard Aaron Craft to a non-guaranteed contract. Good Luck Aaron!

-According to all sources, Johnny Manziel had his best practice of the year and out played Brian Hoyer. Hoyer will get the start in the Great Lakes Classic this Saturday against Detroit. Mike Pettine did hint that the starters may play until the second quarter. With Johnny Manziel playing part of the second, along with Josh Gordon in the 3rd.

-Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported the Browns are bracing for an 8-game suspension for Josh Gordon. Which reinforces why word on his appeal is taking so long. If this is true, I would think the NFL would let him get all the reps and preseason games he can in now, before announcing a lengthy suspension prior to the regular season. Why would the NFL do this? If they suspended him now for 8 games, he is lost with no practice or team participation. If done later, at least Gordon and the quarterbacks can develop chemistry and his return wouldn't be so rough, having to work him in.

-After shooting a 9 hole practice round, Tiger Woods stated he will play in the PGA Championship. Woods also said the injury he suffered at Firestone Country Club last weekend was not related to the surgery he had on March 31st. Woods said and I quate "It was a different pain than what I have been experiencing, so I knew it wasn't the same area of the surgery". Hopefully a pain free Tiger Woods can win his first major since 2008.

-The Cleveland Indians took a second straight loss to the Cincinnati Reds 8-3 in the 'Nati. The bright spot in the lineup was from Jason Kipnis as he went 3-4 on the night, but had no RBI. Danny Salazar went 4 innings giving up 5 hits and 5 earned runs. With 2 straight loses, the Tribe's record is now 57-57 and 2 1/2 games behind for the second wild card. The series ends today with TJ House (1-2,4.09era) going for the Indians and Homer Bailey (8-5 3.89era) pitching for the Reds. After the game, Danny Salazar was optioned down back to Triple-A Columbus after his start. C.C Lee was recalled to replace his roster spot.

TV Tonight 8.6.14

MLB
Indians @ Reds (STO, 7 PM)
Red Sox @ Cardinals (ESPN, 8 PM)

OTHER SPORTS
Little League World Series, Southwest Regional Final (ESPN 2, 7 PM)
MLS SOCCER: All-Star Game, MLS All-Stars vs. Bayern Munich (ESPN 2, 9:30 PM)

====

America's Got Talent (NBC, 8 PM)
So You Think You Can Dance (FOX, 8 PM)
Big Brother (CBS, 8 PM)

Extant (CBS, 9 PM)
Suits (USA, 9 PM)

Wilfred (FXX, 10 PM)
The Bridge (FX, 10 PM)
Taxi Brooklyn (NBC, 10 PM)
Graceland (USA, 10 PM)
Make or Break: The Linda Perry Project (VH1, 10 PM)

Wild N Out, Austin Mahone (MTV 2, 11 PM)
Mac Miller and the Most Dope Family (MTV 2, 11:30 PM)

Woman Crush Wednesday: Jade Bryce #wcw

PREVIOUS
Woman Crush Wednesday: Danica Thrall
Woman Crush Wednesday: AJ Lee
Woman Crush Wednesday: Sabine Jemeljanova
Woman Crush Wednesday: Sara Underwood
Woman Crush Wednesday: Rosie Jones
Woman Crush Wednesday: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
Woman Crush Wednesday: Emily Ratajkowski
Hottie Thursday: Alicia Whitten
Hottie Thursday: Hannah Rogers
Hottie Thursday: Kate Upton
Hottie Thursday: Scarlett Johannson
Hottie Thursday: Emma

Leadoff with Lee 8.6.14

-What happens if Josh Gordon loses his appeal and suspended for one year from the NFL? Does his suspension start right away? Not so fast. Josh Gordon will play this year. How does he play you may ask? He suppose to receive a year long ban if he loses, you may say in your head. Do you recall Pat and Kevin Williams? If not google it. If Gordon receives a year long ban from the NFL, the following should and hopefully will happen. If Josh Gordon loses his appeal his lawyer Maurice Suh will file a lawsuit in the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, while also filing a civil suit requesting a temporary restraining order against the NFL. In the motion for the restraining order, Gordon and his lawyer will ask the judge assigned to the case restrain the NFL from enforcing the suspension. To make sure the the restraining order is granted, Gordon will have to show he is "entitled to the relief demand" in the lawsuit. He also must prove or show if the T.R.O is not granted, he will suffer permanent injury. Which could be monetary damages from not being able to work. He must also prove that the NFL is attempting to threaten what he asking the judge to stop.

Now under Ohio law, Josh Gordon did not test positive for chronic or the active ingredient THC. Under Ohio law "only specimens which test negative on the initial test or negative on the confirmation test shall be reported as negative". So if the NFL must go by Ohio law and since Gordon tested negative on the confirmation test it should be reported as negative. Also under Ohio law, if either the initial test or the confirmation test is negetive the employer is obligated to report it as a negative test.

Here's the tricky part. The NFL substance abuse policy is not written the same as Ohio and the NFL will argue only federal law applies to the Collective Barganing Agreement and substance abuse policy. Josh Gordon is not stating he shouldn't be disinclined by the NFL, but simply he didn't test positive according to the law. Gordon's lawyers will also add a few other issues in his lawsuit as breach of contract, slander and defamation. Now if the T.P.O is granted, Josh will play this season while this whole case is dragged out in court, which may take up to 3 years to complete. But look forward to drafting Josh high, no pun intended, in your fantasy league this year.

-Browns quarterbacks Johnny Manziel and Brian Hoyer split first team reps yesterday at training camp. Many national and local media outlets have stated that Manziel has closed the gap with Brian Hoyer for the starting quarterback spot. But with the release of the Browns first depth chart yesterday, it listed Hoyer as the starter and Manziel as the backup. Also, Josh Gordon was listed as the starting/number 1 receiver on the depth chart.

-The Cleveland Cavaliers officially announced the signings of two former teammates of LeBron James while playing in Miami, James Jones and Mike Miller. Both are outside threats that will open up the middle for James and Kyrie Irving to drive to the hoop. James Jones won the 2011 3 point shootout at the All-Star game. Mike Miller shot 46% from outside the arc last year while playing for the Memphis Grizzlies.

-LeBron James finally met new Cavs coach David Blatt and General Manager David Griffin for the first time in a face to face conversation. Previously all communication was done either on phone or via text. After the meeting with his new coach and GM, LeBron and Mike Miller worked out together at St. Vincent St. Mary High School in Akron. A news conference is scheduled for Wednesday to introduce Mike Miller and James Jones to the Cleveland media.

-Always a step ahead, the San Antonio Spurs hired 6-time WNBA All-Star point guard, Becky Hammon to be an assistant coach on Gregg Popovich's staff. Hammon will take the job after she retires from her 16 year WNBA career this season. She will be the first full time woman assistant coach in the NBA. In 2001, Cleveland Cavaliers coach John Lucas brought in Lisa Boyer, now an assistant at South Carolina, for some practices and games, but did not travel with the team and did not get paid. Perhaps one day, this opens up the possibility of a woman coaching a team in the NBA.

-Indians pitcher Mike Tomlin went 4.1 innings giving up 8 hits, 5 earned runs and 1 unearned run in a rough 9-2 loss against the Reds last night at Progressive field. The Tribe was only able to muster up 5 hits for the game,as Cincinnati's Johnny Cueto dominated the Indians for a complete game. It's not a lot of good things about the Tribe besides they will now travel down to the 'Nati for a 2 game series before traveling to New York to face the Yankees.

======
Tidbits from yesterday...

-Since everyone knows, or if you didn't know, I'm an umpire. People have been calling and texting me, why wasn't the play called dead when two balls were on the field when David Murphy was thrown out at 3rd? Answer is, under high school rules, yes the play would have been dead and runners would be entitled to the base they had possession of at the time of the play being killed. Under MLB rules, a play can not be killed until until the conclusion of the play.

-The Browns signed tight ends Kyle Auffray and Martell Webb. They also signed linebacker Keith Pough and wide receiver Tim Smith.

-Elyria high school alumni Tracy Sprinkle was reinstated to the Ohio State football team but will be suspended for the first game of the season against Navy. Sprinkle had been charged with possession on cocaine and failure to comply after a bar fight in exchange for a no-contest plea bargain after testing negative for any drug use. Sprinkle was fined and must perform community service.

TV Tonight 8.5.14

NFL
Hard Knocks: Training Camp With The Atlanta Falcons (HBO, 10 PM)

MLB
Reds @ Indians (STO, 7 PM)
Tigers @ Yankees (MLB Network, 7 PM)

OTHER SPORTS
Little League World Series, Southwest Regional (ESPN 2, 8 PM)
WNBA: New York Liberty @ Washington Mystics (NBA TV, 7 PM)
SOFTBALL: National Pro Fastpitch, Pennsylvania Rebellion @ Akron Racers (CBS SportsNet, 7 PM)

======

Food Fighters (NBC, 8 PM)
CMA Music Festival: Country's Night To Rock (ABC, 8 PM)

America's Got Talent (NBC, 9 PM)
Face Off (SyFy, 9 PM)
Royal Pains (USA, 9 PM)
Rizzoli & Isles (TNT, 9 PM)

Tyrant (FX, 10 PM)
Drunk History (Comedy Central, 10 PM)
Finding Carter (MTV, 10 PM)
The Wil Wheaton Project (SyFy, 10 PM)
Covert Affairs (USA Network, 10 PM)
Perception (TNT, 10 PM)
Sullivan & Son (TBS, 10 PM)
Nathan For You (Comedy Central, 10:30 PM)

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 8.5.14: WWE Raw

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon is here again, brought to you by Triple Threat Podcast. In this edition I'll be recapping last night's RAW. Last week Randy Orton viciously attacked Roman Reigns, Stephanie McMahon agreed to face Brie Bella at SummerSlam and John Cena gave his opinion to Paul Heyman about facing his client, Broooocccckkkk Lesnar! Let's go to the recap!

- Monday Night RAW kicked off live from Austin, Texas, with The Authority in the ring. Triple H plugs the WWE Network for only $9.99 so many times I lost count. Triple H runs down the SummerSlam card so far then announces Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose will have "Beat The Clock" matches tonight with the winner getting to pick their SummerSlam match stipulation. Stephanie McMahon takes the mic and announces a contract signing tonight for her match with Brie Bella. Randy Orton grabs the mic and trash talks Roman Reigns until Reigns arrives. Reigns says he took everything Orton gave him last week and is still standing. Reigns wants Orton tonight. Triple H says no and instead makes a "Last Man Standing Match" between Reigns and Kane......now.

- "Last Man Standing": Roman Reigns vs Kane: Alot of brawling on the floor, use of the barricades, ring steps and even a kendo stick, early in the match. Reigns goes for a "Superman Punch" but Kane blocks and choke slams Reigns through a table. Reigns barely gets up at 9. Kane goes for the tombstone but Reigns escapes and DDT's Kane on a chair. Reigns blocks another choke slam and wins the match after hitting the "Superman Punch" and a spear, causing Kane to not answer the 10 count.

- Mark Henry vs Damien Sandow (Dressed as an Oklahoma Sooner): Sandow rips on the Texas crowd till Mark Henry, a Texas University alumni, comes out. Henry "World Strongest Slams" Sandow for the pinfall.

- Hulk Hogan returns next week on RAW for his Birthday Celebration.

- "Beat The Clock Match": Dean Ambrose vs Alberto Del Rio: Del Rio goes for the cross arm submission but Ambrose reverses into "Dirty Deeds" for the pinfall at 15:42.

- Rusev and Lana arrive. Lana compares President Obama's faults with the Russian President's greatness then sings Happy Birthday in Russian to President Obama. Jack Swagger and Zeb Colter arrive. Zeb goes on a tirade about America's greatness and puts over our troops. Zeb and Swagger lead the fans in a "We The People" chant. Rusev attacks Swagger with his Russian flag and lays Swagger out. Rusev and Lana corner Zeb, Lana mocks the "We The People" chant and the Russian couple leave.

- Cesaro vs Dolph Ziggler: The Miz was on commentary. Ziggler escapes a Cesaro suplex and hits the "Zig Zag" for the pinfall. The Miz enters the ring and has a stare down with Ziggler. The Miz drops to the mat as Ziggler fakes Miz out with a super kick attempt.

- Backstage Paige cuts a promo about her match with A.J. Lee at SummerSlam and wishes her a speedy recovery.

- Ryback and Curtis Axel vs Goldust and Stardust: Stardust hits the "Dark Mirror" on Axel for the pinfall.

- Backstage Kane interrupts Triple H and Stephanie McMahon. Kane takes his mask off, hands it to Stephanie and leaves.

- Chris Jericho vs Luke Harper: If Jericho wins then Harper will be banned from the Jericho vs Bray Wyatt match at SummerSlam. Jericho with the "Walls of Jericho" on Harper. The lights go out with the Wyatt blip and Bray Wyatt is at ringside when the lights come back on. Jericho hits a "Code Breaker" on Rowan and Harper but gets hit in the throat then hit with "Sister Abigail" by Bray.

- Diego (w/El Torito, Summer Rae and Layla) vs Fandango (w/Hornswaggle): Fandango runs into Hornswaggle which causes Fandango to get a "Back Stabber" from Diego for the pinfall. Hornswoggle leaves with Diego and company after Fandango knocks Hornswoggle down for costing him the match and Diego lays Fandango out.

- Backstage Randy Orton gives his thoughts on Kane taking his mask off and builds up his match with Roman Reigns.

- Bo Dallas vs R-Truth (Round 3): Losing by pinfall and DQ this past week to Truth, Dallas gets another rematch. Dallas ends his losing streak as he rolls up Truth for the pinfall with a handful of tights. Truth attacks Dallas after the match but Dallas "Bo-Dogs" Truth on the floor.

- Backstage Bray Wyatt cuts a promo on his match with Chris Jericho at SummerSlam.

- "Beat The Clock Match": Seth Rollins vs Rob Van Dam: Before the match starts The Authority announces that Heath Slater is Rollins' real opponent putting Rollins as the favorite to win. Dean Ambrose shows up and steals Rollins' briefcase. Ambrose rips up Rollins money in the bank contract, dumps pop, popcorn and JBL's hat in the briefcase. Rollins gets distracted, rolled up and pinned by Slater. Ambrose wins the right to pick the stipulation for their SummerSlam match.

- Stephanie McMahon (w/Triple H) and Brie Bella (w/Nikki Bella) are in the ring for the contract signing for their match at SummerSlam. Stephanie makes jokes about Brie's husband, Daniel Bryan. Brie makes jokes about Stephanie being arrested. Brie dedicates this match to all of the roster that have been screwed over by The Authority (starting a CM Punk chant lol). Stephanie calls Brie pathetic and will end her at SummerSlam. The contract is signed as Stephanie knocks Nikki to the canvas. Triple H corners Brie and is forced to watch Stephanie "Pedigree" Nikki. Brie slaps Triple H and goes for Stephanie. Stephanie slams Brie head first into the table then lays her out with a "Pedigree". Stephanie and Triple H make out and celebrate as RAW closes out.

**** SummerSlam Card ****
- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match": John Cena (c) vs Brock Lesnar
- "WWE Intercontinental Championship Match": The Miz (c) vs Dolph Ziggler
- "WWE Divas Championship Match": A.J. Lee (c) vs Paige
- Randy Orton vs Roman Reigns
- Dean Ambrose vs Seth Rollins
- Chris Jericho vs Bray Wyatt
- "Flag Match": Rusev vs Jack Swagger
- Brie Bella vs Stephanie McMahon

And that closes out this week's RAW recap. I'll be back next Tuesday with another edition. Next week on RAW will be the go home show to SummerSlam. Till then tap or snap.

Leadoff with Lee 8.5.14

This feels good right about now. Everytime I turn on any random show on ESPN, NBA TV, Fox Sports 1, MLB network or any other media outlet, Cleveland is the lead story. And for once, it's not all bad news. So let's start here..

-According to ESPN NBA reporter Brian Windhorst, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers have all reached a "handshake deal" on the worst kept secret in the NBA, Kevin Love to the Cavs. Additional details were provided by Windhorst yesterday on ESPN radio and the trade scenario goes as follows: Kevin Love to Cleveland in exchange for Andrew Wiggins and Anthony Bennett to Minnesota. Bennett then will be traded to the 76ers in exchange for Philadelphia's Thaddeus Young going to the Timberwolves. If this is a true trade scenario as reported, the Cavs will not need to trade a 2015 first round draft pick and I'm down with that. I didn't want to trade any future potential talent that could help the Cavs create a dynasty for years to come.

-Where's Johnny? If you weren't paying attention, he was running the first team offense all day in Browns practice yesterday. It seems as if the city of Cleveland is split on who will or should be the starter for Week One against the rival Pittsburgh Steelers. Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau stated yesterday "I'm expecting Manziel to be the starter." LeBeau continued saying, "I think he's going to be a handful for all of us". To me, it's obvious that LeBeau will fine tune his defense to Manziel or create a "Johnny package", as Brian Hoyer is more of a pocket passer and won't deviate from the base defense that the Steelers run.

-A camouflage Porsche arrived at the Browns training camp facility yesterday morning. Who's car was it? Who can afford a camo Porsche? Yes it was Josh Gordon and his car. Gordon did practice with the second team offense but was dismissed around 11:15 AM so he could attended his appeal hearing via phone. The phone hearing lasted around 3 hours and was submitted for a desicion. According to a source close to Plain Dealer Browns reporter, Mary Kay Cabot, a desicion could take from one to three weeks. In my opinion, if the Gordon appeal to the NFL is so cut and dry why would this hearing take over 13 hours to complete? And if it does take three weeks for a judgement, this puts the Browns at a serious disadvantage next if his suspension is for one full calendar year. Personally, I believe Gordon and his lawyer Maurice Suh presented arbitrator Harold Henderson with either compelling information about the testing, the testing process or they were working on a reduced suspension.

-Browns good guy and former offensive lineman Jason Pinkston will sit out the rest of the season and possibly retire due to blood clots in his lungs. Pinkston, just 26 years old, missed the last 10 games of the 2012 season with the same condition. Clotting in the lungs is life threatening and Pinkston had symptoms of the clots during training which included spitting up blood, fatigue and shortness of breath. Jason was at the Browns facility yesterday and reached an injury settlement . Jason Pinkston was a true class act and volunteered a lot in Cleveland and northeast Ohio in general. We wish Jason Pinkston nothing but success and hope he stays involved with Cleveland and surrounding communities.

-It's clear the Corey Kluber is the true ace of this Cleveland Indians staff. He improved to 12-6 on the season with his 2.55 era to help lead the Tribe to a 7-1 win against the Cincinatti Reds last night. Kluber pitched 7.1 innings giving up 6 hits, 1 run and 7 strikeouts. Jason Kipnis, Michael Brantley and Jose Ramirez each had two hits for the Indians. With Lonnie Chisenhall and Yan Gomes going yard. Chisenhall recorded 3 RBI, with Gomes and Brantley with 2. The Indians and Reds close out the 2 game set tonight at 7 PM, with Josh Tomlin on the rubber for the Tribe, and Johnny Cueto going for the Reds.

TV Tonight 8.4.14

MLB
Reds @ Indians (STO, 7 PM)
Tigers @ Yankees (ESPN, 7 PM)

SOFTBALL
National Pro Fastpitch, Pennsylvania Rebellion @ Akron Racers (CBS SportsNet, 8:30 PM)

======

WWE Raw (USA, 8 PM)
Running Wild With Bear Grylls (NBC, 8 PM)
Bachelor In Paradise (ABC, 8 PM)
MasterChef (FOX, 8 PM)

Partners, SERIES PREMIERE (FX, 9 PM)
American Ninja Warrior (NBC, 9 PM)
Hotel Hell (FOX, 9 PM)
Major Crimes (TNT, 9 PM)

Anger Management, SEASON PREMIERE (FX, 10 PM)
Teen Wolf (MTV, 10 PM)
Mistresses (ABC, 10 PM)
Under The Dome (CBS, 10 PM)
Murder In The First (TNT, 10 PM)

TV Tonight 8.3.14

NFL
Hall of Fame Game, Buffalo Bills vs. New York Giants (NBC, 8 PM)

MLB
Yankees @ Red Sox (ESPN, 8 PM)

GOLF
WGC Bridgestone Invitational, Final Round (CBS, 2PM-6PM)

TENNIS
WTA Tennis: U.S. Open Series, Bank of the West Classic Final (ESPN 2, 5 PM)

OTHER SPORTS
NHRA DRAG RACING: O'Reilly Auto Parts Northwest Nationals (ESPN 2, 7 PM)
WNBA: San Antonio Stars @ Seattle Storm (NBA TV, 9 PM)
WOMEN'S SOCCER: NWSL, Houston Dash @ Portland Thorns (ESPN 2, 10 PM)

====

Wrestlemania 30: The World Television Premiere (NBC, 7 PM)
Wipeout (ABC, 7 PM)

Big Brother (CBS, 8 PM)

True Blood (HBO, 9 PM)
Ray Donovan (Showtime, 9 PM)
Rising Star (ABC, 9 PM)
Unforgettable (CBS, 9 PM)
The Last Ship (TNT, 9 PM)

The Strain (FX, 10 PM)
The Leftovers (HBO, 10 PM)
Masters of Sex (Showtime, 10 PM)
Reckless (CBS, 10 PM)
Falling Skies (TNT, 10 PM)
Halt And Catch Fire, SEASON FINALE (AMC, 10 PM)

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO, 11 PM)

Leadoff with Lee 8.3.14

Ohio had a lot going on yesterday especially Cleveland, Akron and Canton. I don't even know where to start but let's go here:

-The NFL Hall of Fame in Canton inducted 7 new members that included 7 time Pro Bowler Micheal Strahan, who was the 2001 NFL Defensive MVP and recorded 22.5 sacks which is a NFL single season record. For the first time a punter made the Hall, and he goes by the name of Ray Guy. He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders. He was a 7 time Pro Bowler and 23rd pick of the 1973 NFL draft. The line of the night went to John Madden who said "Punters are football players too. Ray Guy was a football player that punted". Now in my own mind, I was saying "Hell nah I'm just a football player who kicks a ball, makes millions and doesn't get tackled". Even though punters didn't make millions back then,
but y'all get the point.

-Claude Humphrey. This one I don't understand. He is a 6 time Pro Bowler, 2 time first team All-Pro and 1969 Defensive Player of the Year for the Atlanta Falcons. I just don't see the credentials/stats to back it up but NEEEEEXT!

-Arizona Cardinal Aeneas Williams. Now when I look at cornerbacks, I compare them all to Deion Sanders. But he was a 8 time AFC pro bowler and 3 time first team All-Pro. He recorded 55 interceptions and 9 touchdowns in his career with the Cardinals and St. Louis Rams.

-Derrick Brooks was a beast! 11 Pro Bowls, 5 time All-Pro linebacker out of Florida State that played for the Buccaneers of Tampa Bay. Great pass rusher, great speed and excellent hands!

-Offensive linemen Walter Jones got the nod this year. A excellent left tackle, 9 time Pro Bowler and 4 time All-Pro dominated all defensive linemen he faced. Sometimes the best defense is the offense.

-Buffalo Bills wideout Andre Reed. Jerry Rice got the spotlight when Andre played, but numbers never lie. The Bills star receiver was always a 3rd down threat and Jim Kelly's go to guy. He caught everything thrown his way. This 7 time Pro Bowler ranks 13th in receiving yards and 11th all time in receptions. He helped lead the Bills to 4 straight Super Bowls in the 90s.

-It was Jim Thome Statue Day at Progressive field and the boys on the field did him proud. After pitching a no-hitter in Triple-A Columbus, T.J House was brought up by the Tribe and recorded a 2-0 win over the Texas Rangers. House went 5 innings giving up only 3 hits, with 7 strikeouts. The short outing can be contributed to his 9 inning no hitter. Cody Allen came in to get his 14th save of the season. "Dr. Smooth" Michael Brantley continues to show why he was an All-Star, going 2-4 for the night. Nick "BrOhio" Swisher and Lonnie Chisenhall had the RBI for the good guys. The Indians will wrap the series up at 1:05 today, then start a series at home against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday.

-In Akron, it looks like a battle between Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia at the WGC Bridgestone. Garcia is 14 under and Mcilroy is at 11 under. Fan favorite Tiger Woods, who is in desperate need of a win, is plus 1.

-Minnesota Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor stated yesterday "a Kevin Love trade is likey by August 23 or 24". "I'm saying it's most likely because Kevin has made it pretty clear that that's what he wants to do". So what does Kevin exactly want to do? Come to Cleveland and play with "The King"? I'll be the first to say Welcome to Cleveland, Kevin. This to me is just more concrete evidence that Andrew Wiggins will be included in the trade. His jersey is still labeled discontinued on the Cavs and NBA website.

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon: WWE Smackdown

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon returns with the Smackdown recap for the week. This week's Smackdown took place in Corpus Christi, Texas. Smackdown kicked off with the former Real Americans going one on one.

- Jack Swagger (w/Zeb Colter) vs Cesaro: The All American American took on The King of Swing in the first match of the night. Swagger locks in the "Patriot Lock" on Cesaro after Cesaro gets distracted by Zeb. Cesaro ends up tapping out. After the match Rusev and Lana arrive, praise Russia and challenge Swagger to a "Flag Match" at SummerSlam. Zeb Colter doesn't hesitate to accept the challenge for Swagger and for every American.

- Randy Orton comes out and cuts a promo. Says he should be fighting for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam, blames Roman Reigns for his misfortune and dares Reigns to face him at SummerSlam.

- R-Truth vs Bo Dallas: Dallas gets a rematch from RAW on R-Truth after Truth broke Dallas' undefeated streak with a rollup. Dallas loses again, this time by DQ, as he ignored the referee's count to five as Dallas hit Truth in the corner repeatedly. After the match Dallas continued to attack Truth then cut a promo. Dallas says that everything is ok and everyone can still "Bo-Lieve".

- A.J. Lee vs Rosa Mendes: A.J. makes Rosa tap out in a quick match. A.J. heads up the ramp and gets blind sided by Paige. Paige attacks A.J. while yelling about still being her friend. Paige comes down from "crazy" mode and mocks A.J. by skipping away as WWE officials rush out to check on A.J.

- Dean Ambrose is backstage and hyping up his match against Seth Rollins and Kane next.

- "Handicap Match": Kane and Seth Rollins vs Dean Ambrose: Ambrose, the "Lunatic Fringe", grabs himself a steel chair and unloads on Kane and Rollins. Kane lands a big boot on Ambrose and goes for a choke slam. Ambrose blocks with a DDT. Rollins wanting no part of his former Shield partner in crime, runs. Ambrose picks up the chair and continues the chair shots on the devils favorite demon.

- Backstage Chris Jericho hypes up his match with Erick Rowan in the main event. And we get more weird shenanigans from Goldust and Stardust.

- Diego (with Summer Rae and Layla) vs Fandango: Layla and Summer Rae distract Fandango as they dance on the floor. Diego hits the "back stabber" on Fandango for the pinfall.

- Alberto Del Rio vs Dolph Ziggler: WWE Intercontinental Champion, The Miz, was on commentary for this match. The Miz takes the opportunity to distract Ziggler by giving another acceptance speech. Ziggler chases Miz off but gets locked in Del Rio's "Cross Armbreaker" as he returned to the ring. The distraction worked as Ziggler taps out.

- Chris Jericho vs Erick Rowan (w/Luke Harper): A special stipulation was added to the match. If Jericho wins then Rowan will be banned from ringside at SummerSlam when Jericho faces Bray Wyatt. Luke Harper gets ejected from ringside after trying to get involved in the match. Rowan hits a big boot on Jericho that dazes the Fozzy lead singer. Jericho regains himself and hits a surprise "Code Breaker" on Rowan and scores the pin. Rowan is officially banned from SummerSlam. After the match, Bray Wyatt and Chris Jericho have a stare down. Bray eventually backs down laughing as Smackdown comes to an end.

**** SummerSlam Card ****
- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match": John Cena (c) vs Brock Lesnar
- Randy Orton vs Roman Reigns
- Chris Jericho vs Bray Wyatt
- "Flag Match": Rusev vs Jack Swagger
- Brie Bella vs Stephanie McMahon

And that is a wrap on this recap. I will be back Tuesday afternoon for the RAW recap. If you get time be sure to check out if you haven't already my two special edition blogs. The first being my blog about the signing of KENTA to the WWE and the most recent one being about Sting in the WWE. Until next time, tap or snap.

Leadoff with Lee 8.2.14

-During last night's USA Basketball intrasquad scrimmage game at UNLV, Indiana Pacers star forward Paul George suffered a VERY gruesome broken right leg. While getting back on defense, George went up in the air to defend a James Harden lay up and landed at the base of the basket stanchion. George's leg buckled and snapped, breaking the skin. Teammates reacted immediately, sickened and doubled over with great concern for their fallen friend, teammate and basketball brother. Medics rushed to the fallen George, stabilizing his leg in an air cast before taking him to a Las Vegas hospital where he was accompanied by his family. Needless to say, U.S. coach and Duke University coach Mike Krzyzewski announced that out of respect for Paul and his family, the game was over.

Almost two hours after the incident, Paul George tweeted this out:

Thanks everybody for the love and support.. I'll be ok and be back better than ever!!! Love y'all!! #YoungTrece

— Paul George (@Paul_George24) August 2, 2014

USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo would not speculate on the severity of the injury and asked the media to be patient and not to ask when Team USA roster cuts would be made. Along with all members of both scrimmage teams, players around the league reacted, sending out their well wishes and prayers to Paul and his family.

George, only 24, has emerged as the leader of the Pacers and one of the best players in the NBA and a two-time All-Star. George signed a 5 year $90M extension with the Pacers last season that was ready to kick in this season.

USA Basketball it announced that he had successful emergency surgery of a right leg open tibia-fibula with no ancillary damage and is expected to remain in a Las Vegas hospital for about 3 days. Recovery time could range anywhere from 6 to 12 months, at minimum. A very sad time for USA Basketball, the NBA, the Indiana Pacers and Paul George and his family.
-Chris Williams, The Raven Report

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-Even though we all know Andrew Wiggins has been involved in the trade talks for Timberwolves big man Kevin Love, I have "may" have further proof of the trade details that were made in principal. After looking at Cavs.com jerseys, Andrew Wiggins' jersey has been labeled discontinued. Could this be a internet error? I for one, don't think so. Remember when LeBron was drafted? His jersey was labeled sold out and wasn't labeled discontinued until he signed with the Heat.

-Josh Gordon's appeal hearing appearantly went longer than I first reported. From the same source I talked to yesterday morning around 10:22 to be exact, called me at 5:45 and told me "That was just a recess at 10:30am. Gordon's appeal hearing will resume Monday afternoon. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will review all the details and I will still say we will hear something Wednesday or Thursday at the latest. In my opinion, sample A was positive and samble B was negative. 1 positive + 1 negative = 0. I was horrible at math but I'm sure that is correct. But according to the NFL CBA, Sample A is the main test and sample B is to confirm the drug was in the system. But I have heard and seen false positive tests.

-Who knew golfers get tested for drugs? Dustin Johnson tested positive for cocaine. He also failed tests for marijuana in 2009, and two more tests for coke in 2012. Johnson has been suspended for 6 months by the PGA. Friday he stated, he will seek treatment for his "personal challenges" I.E his drinking, drug and sex indiscretions.

-The Cleveland Indians romped the Texas Rangers 12-2 on Jim Thome statue day. Danny Salazar pitched 6 innings, giving up one run, 4 hits and 4 strike outs. "Dr. Smooth" Michael Brantley went 3-4 with 2 RBI. Right fielder David Murphy went 4-4, scoring 2 runs and 2 RBI. It was just an all out hit fest as the Indians scored 12 runs on 16 hits. Danny Salazar goes to 4-4 on the season. They will take the field again tonight at 7 PM, with TJ House on the bump.

-Support Triple Threat Podcast by liking and following us on Facebook and Twitter, @triple3xthreat. Also, tweet and follow Chris Williams here @nevaRWilliams and myself, Chris Lee here @cleeverizon.

TV Weekend 8.1.14 - 8.2.14

MLB
Rangers @ Indians (Friday, STO, 7 PM)
Yankees @ Red Sox OR Mariners @ Orioles (Friday, MLB Network, 7 PM)

Yankees @ Red Sox (Saturday, FOX Sports 1, 4 PM)
Rangers @ Indians (Saturday, STO, 7 PM)
Brewers @ Cardinals OR Mariners @ Orioles (Saturday, MLB Network, 7 PM)

NFL
2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony (Saturday, NFL Network/ESPN 2, 7 PM)

BASKETBALL
City Slam (Friday, ESPN, 7 PM)
2014 Entertainers Classic, from Rucker Park (Friday, ESPN, 8 PM)
USA National Team: Blue vs. White (Friday, ESPN, 9 PM)

TENNIS
ATP Tennis, U.S. Open Series: Citi Open, Quarterfinal (Friday, ESPN 2, 7 PM)

ATP Tennis, U.S. Open Series: Citi Open, Semifinal (Saturday, ESPN 2, 3 PM)
WTA Tennis, U.S. Open Series: Bank of the West Classic, Semifinal (Saturday, ESPN 2, 5 PM)

SOCCER
MLS: Philadelphia Union @ Sporting Kansas City (Friday, NBC Sports, 8 PM)

MLS: Portland Timbers @ Los Angeles Galaxy (Saturday, NBC, 2:30 PM)
International Champions Cup, Manchester United FC vs. Real Madrid CF (Saturday, FOX, 4 PM)
MLS: Seattle Sourders FC @ San Jose Earthquakes (Saturday, NBC Sports, 10:30 PM)

GOLF
WGC Bridgestone Invitational, Third Round (Saturday, CBS, 2 PM)

OTHER SPORTS
NASCAR: Camping World Truck Series, Pocono Final Practice (Friday, FOX Sports 1, 6:30 PM)
MLL LACROSSE: New York Lizards @ Charlotte Hounds (Friday, CBS SportsNet, 7 PM)
WNBA: Connecticut Sun @ San Antonio Stars (Friday, NBA TV, 8 PM)
BOXING: Friday Night Fights, Gabriel Campillo vs. Thomas Williams Jr. (Friday, ESPN 2, 9 PM)
CFL FOOTBALL: BC Lions @ Calgary Stampeders (Friday, ESPNews, 10 PM)

SURFING: World of X Games, ASP Surfing, J-Bay Open (Saturday, ABC, 3 PM)
HORSE RACING: The Hambletonian Stakes (Saturday, CBS SportsNet, 4 PM)
NASCAR: Nationwide Series, U.S. Cellular 250, Qualifying (Saturday, ESPN, 4:30 PM)
HORSE RACING: Whitney Invitational Handicap (Saturday, NBC, 5 PM)
NASCAR: Nationwide Series, U.S. Cellular 250 (Saturday, ESPN, 8 PM)
NHRA DRAG RACING: O'Reilly Auto Parts Northwest Nationals, Qualifying (Saturday, ESPN 2, 10 PM)

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WWE Friday Night Smackdown (Friday, SyFy, 8 PM)
Girl Meets World (Friday, Disney Channel, 8:30 PM)

Crossbones (Saturday, NBC, 8 & 9 PM)
Hell On Wheels (Saturday, AMC, 9 PM)
Power (Saturday, STARZ, 9 PM)

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 8.1.14: TNA Impact

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon is upon us again, brought to you by Triple Threat Podcast. TNA Impact received a major blow this week as Spike TV announced that TNA Impact will be cancelled from their tv programming. It is unknown at this time what will become of TNA but they need to act fast if they want to get a new tv deal with a new channel. Many are worried that this may be the end of that little company that Jeff Jarrett started in 2002. Only time will tell. Until then let's enjoy what TNA action we still have and hope they get a new deal soon.

Last night was a very special TNA Destination X made for TV pay per view. The Hardy Boys reunited to take on The Wolves for the TNA World Tag Team Championship. A TNA X Division Title Triple Threat Tournament kicked off to determine a new TNA X Division Champion. And Austin Aries cashed in his TNA X Division Title last week to get a shot at Bobby Lashley and the TNA World Title. Let's hit the recap.

- Destination X kicked off from New York City with Dixie Carter and Team Dixie inhabiting the ring. Dixie has a mic and brags about how she keeps outsmarting everyone. Dixie rips on Team 3D and Tommy Dreamer and builds up her nephew, the next big star, Ethan Carter III. ECIII builds up Team Dixie's new recruits Snitsky and Zeke Jackson. ECIII christians Zeke with the new name of Rycklon, challenges Bully Ray to one final match and states that he'll put Team 3D and Dreamer down for good.

- "TNA World Tag Team Championship": The Wolves (c) vs The Hardy Boys: One of the most famous tag teams of the WWE Attitude Era reunited tonight for a shot at the gold. Matt Hardy puts Davey Richards on the top turnbuckle and sets him up for a super twist of fate. Eddie Edwards runs up and hits an enziguiri on Matt. The Wolves hit the powerbomb/backstabber combo on Matt and The Wolves score the pinfall to retain the TNA World Tag Team Championship.

- "Triple Threat X Division Tournament": DJ Z vs Manik vs Low Ki: The first of three triple threat tournament matches tonight. Low Ki sends DJ Z to the floor then reverses Manik's double underhook with a double stomp. Low Ki hits the "Ki Krusher" on Manik to score the pinfall and advance to next week's TNA X Division Triple Threat Title Match.

- James Storm cuts a promo and says that he is Sanada's new mentor, leader and friend because he was sick of what The Great Muta was doing. Storm introduces Sanada for his match, Sanada bows to Storm.

- "Triple Threat X Division Tournament": Sanada vs Brian Cage vs Crazzy Steve: Cage hits a firemans carry on Steve then spring board moonsaults at Sanada. Sanada avoids it and hits a bridging tiger suplex for the pinfall. Sanada advances to next week's TNA X Division Triple Threat Match.

- Team 3D and Tommy Dreamer arrive for a promo. Dreamer says extreme has nothing to do with tables and chairs, it's about work ethic. Dreamer puts over guys on the TNA roster then tells ECIII that they should just fight tonight. ECIII comes out and says they'll fight next week. Bully Ray says that since ECIII picked the time then he's picking the stipulation. Next week it'll be a "Hardcore Weapons of War, Eight Man Tag Team Match" and Bully promises Dixie Carter will go through a table.

- The Beautiful People cut a promo backstage. Angelina Love says Kurt Angle keeps blocking her from getting a rematch for the TNA Knockouts Title. Love promises a huge announcement next week.

- "Triple Threat X Division Tournament": Samoa Joe vs Homicide vs Tigre Uno: Homicide returns to TNA for the match. Joe hits the "Musclebuster" on Homicide to score the pinfall. Joe and Homicide show respect to each other after the match by following Ring of Honor's Code of Honor by shaking hands. Next week it'll be Samoa Joe vs Sanada vs Low Ki for the TNA X Division Title.

- "TNA World Title Match": Bobby Lashley (c) vs Austin Aries: Aries hits the brainbuster on Lashley but Lashley kicks out at two. Aries goes for a suicide dive on Lashley on the floor. Lashley sidesteps Aries and Aries kisses the barricade instead. Lashley rolls Aries back in the ring and hits the spear on Aries. Lashley covers for the pinfall. TNA closes out with Bobby Lashley STILL TNA World Heavyweight Champion.

And that closes out this week's TNA Impact. I will be back next week for another edition of TNA Impact recap, as long as Spike TV doesn't pull the plug early on TNA. Till then, tap or snap.

Leadoff with Lee 8.1.14

-Following the Justin Masterson trade, shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera was traded to the Washington Nationals for infielder Zach Walters. Walters has played shortstop, third base, second base and left field. To me, it seems the Indians like the plug and play players in order to fill out their lineup in case of emergency or to give someone a rest. For now, Francisco Lindor will remain in Triple-A until the Indians can expand their lineup, barring injury, in September. Lindor already has Jose Ramirez and Mike Aviles ahead of him for the starting shortstop role. The Tribe had no chance of signing Justin Masterson or Asdrubal Cabrera, as both will be free agents at the end of the season without breaking the bank.

-Thanks to the bullpen, the Indians lost to the Mariners 6-5. The game had a total of 21 hits through the 9 inning game. Zack McAllister was only able to go 3.1 innings with Bryan Shaw getting the loss. This is Shaw's 4th blown save of the season. The bats were hot but the Tribe couldn't start the fire to roast the Mariners. The Texas Rangers arrive today for a 3 game set with Danny Salazar getting the start for the good guys. Jerome Williams will go for the Rangers.

-Appearantly the Tribe was in contact with the Rays for pitcher David Price. It would have cost them Danny Salazar, Carlos Santana and Francisco Lindor. Would you have done it? Hell nah. I'm not gonna sacrifice my future over the right now. It's going to come along Tribe fans. We all want a winner!

-Josh Gordon flew out to New York Wednesday night and met with his lawyers Thursday to prepare for his appeal on a fail/missed/second hand smoke drug screening which will happen today. The results of his appeal won't be known until at least Wednesday or Thursday according to my sources. But sources did state to me, it will happen before the Browns first preseason game next Saturday. Roger Goodell will NOT be involved in the hearing and has appointed special counsel. From what I'm told, it's 50/50 on what will happen to Gordon. I should learn more info Friday night.

-Johnny Manziel vs Brian Hoyer is closer than what some may think. Manziel was a beast in goal line offense, while Hoyer was great in the middle of the field. Rumor has it, the Browns will run a college style offense depending on the personal and situation on the field. Packages have been installed for Manziel and Hoyer to take advantage of the defensive situations. Hoyer has the leadership but Manziel has the intangibles. Yes Cleveland, we have another quarterback battle.

-Besides Kevin Love on his way to Cleveland, I would suspect former Cavs player Mo Williams to come back as well. Just a rumor but don't rule it out!

-The USA Today Coaches Poll was released yesterday and where do you think the Ohio State Buckeyes ranked? After finishing 12-2 last year and 8-0 in the B1G Ten, the Buckeyes emerged 6th in the country and the favorite to win the Big Ten. Michigan State finished 8th. With Ohio State looking for a Big Ten title and a National Championship this year, the Buckeyes will continue to build to success for now and well into the future.