TV Tonight 4.26

By @nevaRWilliams

NBA PLAYOFFS
Raptors @ Wizards, Game 4, Wizards Lead 3-0 (TNT, 6:30pm)
Rockets @ Mavericks, Game 4, Rockets Lead 3-0 (TNT, 9pm)

MLB
Mets @ Yankees (ESPN, 8pm)

NHL PLAYOFFS
Canadiens @ Senators, Game 6, Canadiens Lead 3-2 (NBC Sports, 6pm)

BASKETBALL
NBA D-League Finals: Fort Wayne Mad Ants @ Santa Cruz Warriors, Game 2 (ESPNU, 7pm)

SOCCER
MLS: Toronto FC @ Orlando City SC (FOX Sports 1, 7pm)
====

The 2015 Radio Disney Music Awards (Disney, 8pm)
Once Upon A Time (ABC, 8pm)
Madam Secretary (CBS, 8pm)
The Simpsons (FOX, 8pm)
Brooklyn Nine-Nine (FOX, 8:30pm)

Game Of Thrones (HBO, 9pm)
Nurse Jackie (Showtime, 9pm)
A.D. The Bible Continues (NBC, 9pm)
Secrets And Lies (ABC, 9pm)
Family Guy (FOX, 9pm)
The Good Wife (CBS, 9pm)
The Last Man On Earth (FOX, 9:30pm)
Happyish (Showtime, 9:30pm)

Silicon Valley (HBO, 10pm)
Mad Men (AMC, 10pm)
Salem (WGN America, 10pm)
American Odyssey (NBC, 10pm)
Revenge (ABC, 10pm)
Battle Creek (CBS, 10pm)
The Royals (E!, 10pm)
Veep (HBO, 10:30pm)

Last Week Tonight (HBO, 11pm)

WWE Extreme Rules Preview #WWE #ExtremeRules

By @B_Rock1978

It's time to get EXTREME!!!! WWE brings you this year's Extreme Rules event, live from the Allstate Arena, in the windy city of Chicago, Illinois. All the major titles will be on the line, tonight, and there will be a few other stipulated matches, to settle some feuds. The following is tonight's card and my predictions for the outcomes.

- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship, Steel Cage Match": Seth Rollins (c) vs. Randy Orton (w/Kane as the Guardian Of The Gate): The Rollins Era begins, with Seth Rollins' first World Title defense. Seth Rollins lost to Randy Orton at Wrestlemania, but Rollins went on to cash in his money in the bank briefcase, and leave Wrestlemania 31 the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Randy Orton was still owed his rematch from when he lost the title last year. Orton went on to defeat Ryback and Roman Reigns in a triple threat match, earning his title shot. Can "The Viper" strike down Rollins and win the title? Or will the new face of the WWE, Seth Rollins, continue his reign as the world champion? Orton won the right to make this a Steel Cage Match, but Rollins won the right to ban the "RKO" from the match. Will the banning of Orton's signature move work in Rollins favor? Or will Orton be able to pull a new finisher outta nowhere? And how will Kane fit into this as the Guardian of the Gate, outside the steel cage? Kane has had his issues with Seth Rollins, recently. Will Kane cost Rollins his title, or do what's best for business?

My Prediction: Seth Rollins

- "WWE United States Championship, Russian Chain Match": John Cena (c) vs. Rusev: Cena/Rusev III. Rusev took the first fall at Fast Lane when he made Cena pass out to The Accolade. Cena took the second fall at Wrestlemania, when he became the first person to pin Rusev and by doing so became the WWE United States Champion. Cena, wanting to bring pride back to the U.S. Title, became a fighting champion and offered title shots anytime, anyplace. Rusev demanded his rematch at Extreme Rules, for the U.S. Title. Can Rusev reclaim the WWE United States Championship and humiliate America? Or will John Cena win another one for America and retain the WWE United States Championship?

My Prediction: Rusev

- "WWE Intercontinental Championship Match": Daniel Bryan (c) vs. Bad News Barrett: Daniel Bryan walked out of Wrestlemania 31, the new WWE Intercontinental Champion, surviving six other superstars in a grueling ladder match. Bad News Barrett, the former champion, was granted his rematch for the title tonight. Barrett has vowed to end Bryan and the "Yes Movement", while Bryan looks to restore the WWE Intercontinental Championship as a prestigious championship.

My Prediction: Bad News Barrett

- "WWE Divas Championship Match": Nikki Bella (c) vs. Naomi: Nikki and her sister Brie, continue to rule the Divas Division, as they have taken down every challenge put in front of them. With A.J. Lee announcing her retirement, this has raised the Bella's egos even higher, as the reigning queens of the Divas Division. Paige, originally was scheduled to face Nikki Bella for the title, however, was viciously attacked by Naomi. With Paige out of action, Naomi has taken over the spot as the number one contender to the Divas Championship. Can Naomi, dethrone Nikki? Or will the Bellas remain on top of the Divas Division?

My Prediction: Nikki Bella

- "Kiss Me Arse Match": Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler: Sheamus returned from injury the night after Wrestlemania 31 and immediately became a changed man. Gone was the smiling Irish good guy, arriving was a mohawked and angry Irish badass. Sheamus attacked Daniel Bryan and Dolph Ziggler both in his first night back and immediately made others fear him. Sheamus now looks out for himself and takes what he feels belongs to him. Ziggler, stood up to Sheamus and labeled him a bully, who he intended on stopping. Sheamus stated he'd not only kick Ziggler's arse but make him kiss it too. The "Kiss Me Arse Match" was born, where the loser must kiss the winners "Arse".

My Prediction: Sheamus

- "Last Man Standing Match": Big Show vs. Roman Reigns: Reigns and Big Show have battled and feuded with each other since the beginning of the year. The Authority look to derail any future opportunities for Roman Reigns to return into the WWE World Heavyweight Championship picture, by sending in their "Giant". Roman Reigns looks to finally chop down Big Show and work his way through The Authority, until he finally gets his hands on Seth Rollins and gets his revenge for what happened at Wrestlemania.

My Prediction: Roman Reigns

- "Chicago Street Fight Match": Dean Ambrose vs. Luke Harper: Ambrose and Harper have both been on a mission to take each other out for the past month. Both men have tried to end the others career, brawling throughout the arena and using anything they could get their hands on. Both men will get another shot at each other, this time in a match with no rules and weapons are legal. It's the lunatic hillbilly vs. the lunatic fringe as Ambrose and Harper renew their old Shield/Wyatt Family feud.

My Prediction: Dean Ambrose

*** Pre-Show ***

- "WWE World Tag Team Championship Match": Tyson Kidd and Cesaro (c) vs. The New Day: The New Day won the right to face off against Kidd and Cesaro last week on RAW. Can the dancing, clapping and fun loving New Day, that everyone seems to hate, pick up the win? Kidd and Cesaro have been a tough team to beat since winning the tag titles, as they continue to impress, with their combination of high flying and mat wrestling.

My Prediction: Kidd and Cesaro

My current prediction record stands at 16-8.

Weekend 3 Count: 4/20 - 4/26 #WWE #IMPACTWrestling #GFW #TNA

By @B_Rock1978

The Weekend 3 Count is brought to you by Triple Threat CLE. This week I bring you all the news and rumors around the WWE, TNA, GFW and the Independent wrestling scene for April 20th - April 26th.

*** Weekend Flashback ***

- Extreme Rules is tonight! Check out not one, but two of this week's highlight videos of some past Extreme Rules matches. The first highlight video, you'll see Jeff Hardy vs. Edge from the 2009 Extreme Rules event. The second video will be from Extreme Rules 2014 with Evolution vs. The Shield.

*** WWE News and Rumors ***
- This past RAW, The New Day, earned the right to face Tyson Kidd and Cesaro at Extreme Rules for the WWE World Tag Team Championship.

- Seth Rollins has currently dropped using the Curb Stomp as his finishing move. Rumors have said that it was his decision and other rumors have said it was WWE's decision, due to protecting wrestlers from injuries.

- Last week, it was announced that Daniel Bryan was sent home during the European tour, with no reason given by WWE. This week, WWE has stated that Bryan was injured during a six man tag match at a house show. There is a chance Bryan could be out of action for a month. If this is true, than it is unknown what will happen at Extreme Rules, where Bryan is set to defend the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Bad News Barrett.

- Rumors are stating that the latest Bray Wyatt cryptic promos may be a set up for a feud with Ryback.

- It was announced that the WWE Divas Championship Match at Extreme Rules, between Nikki Bella and Paige has been called off. Paige is currently out of action with a storyline injury and it'll now be Nikki defending against Naomi.

- Batista was interviewed recently and talked about a possible return. Batista, however stated, if he were to return, he's looking at doing house show appearances only, with no tv appearances. Chris Jericho recently went the same route this past winter. Jericho did a mini house show tour, but was not shown in any tv scripted feuds.

- There is a possible spoiler for a match at Payback making rounds. Rumors are stating that there could be a possible triple threat match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship between Seth Rollins, Randy Orton and Roman Reigns. Nothing has been officially announced yet.

- Former TNA World Heavyweight Champion, Samoa Joe, was said to have been backstage at recent NXT tapings. Joe is in talks with Triple H about a WWE contract.

- NXT's next Takeover special will air on May 20th. Rumors are stating it may be main evented with NXT World Champion Kevin Owens facing Sami Zayn.

*** TNA News and Rumors ***

- Brooke Tessmacher became the new #1 Contender to the TNA Knockouts Championship, this past Impact.

- TNA Knockouts Champion, Taryn Terrell, revealed herself as the leader of the new knockouts faction called The Dollhouse, this past Impact.

*** GFW News and Rumors ***
- GFW officially announced they will be having a grand slam tour, visiting minor league ballparks this summer, leading up to and taking place after their Las Vegas premiere. You can check out their advertising commercial here:

*** Other Wrestling News ***

- Former WCW World Champion and WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Bill Goldberg, stated recently that he will be returning to the ring for one more match. Goldberg did make it very clear that it will not be with WWE.

- Former WCW World Champion, Kevin Nash, was interviewed recently. Nash made it known that during the Monday Night Wars, Nash came very close to getting The Undertaker to jump over to WCW. If it would've happened, The Undertaker would've used his biker gimmick and would've been called "American Bad Ass" Mark Calloway.

- MMA Fighter, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, was interviewed recently. Jackson stated that his time in TNA was horrible and he wasn't happy at all. Jackson stated that TNA may have killed any hopes of him getting involved in any other wrestling promotion.

And that is this weekend's 3 Count. Join me every Sunday afternoon, where I give you the major stories in WWE, TNA, GFW and the independent wrestling scene. Till next time, tap or snap.

~B~

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 4.25.15: #TNA #ImpactWrestling Recap

By @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE. It's this week's TNA Impact recap edition.

- Impact was taped at the Impact Zone this week. This week's Impact showcased a lot of the Knockouts.

- In Ring Promo with Kurt Angle: Angle is immediately interrupted by Eric Young. Angle says he saw a glimpse of the old good guy EY last week. EY says he's always been crazy, but winning the TNA World Title changed him, people got in his ear, Kurt helped him by bringing it to his attention and he'll be wrestling the real Eric Young. Angle and EY shake hands and it appears EY has turned face again. Austin Aries interrupts and tells EY that they still have things to talk about, because it doesn't change the fact he turned on his best friend Bobby Roode. Aries tells EY he'll have to wait for his title shot, because Aries is cashing in his Feast or Fired briefcase on Angle tonight.

- "#1 Contender’s, Fatal Four Way Match": Gail Kim vs. Angelina Love vs. Brooke Tessmacher vs. Madison Rayne: Brooke and Gail both run the ropes and hit cross body blocks on each other. Love hits a reverse "STO", Gail hits "Eat Defeat", Madison hits the "Rayne Drop" and Brooke hits a wheelbarrow facebuster. Brooke scores the pinfall and becomes the new #1 Contender to the TNA Knockouts Championship.

- Mika vs. Kenny King: MVP pretended to be Mika's opponent, but King attacks Mika and takes the match. Later in the match, MVP runs distraction as Low Ki attacks Mika. King gets a near fall with an enziguiri. King hits another enziguiri then goes to the apron. King goes for a spring board splash, but Mika counters with a samoan drop and scores the pinfall on King.

After The Match: MVP and Low Ki attack Mika. Drew Galloway and Eli hit the ring and even the odds. Homicide hits the ring with a night stick and beats down The Rising. The BDC single out Galloway and Low Ki beats him with a pipe.

- Backstage, Drew Galloway is helped to the back and demands a "Steel Pipe On A Pole Match" at Hardcore Justice against anyone in the BDC.

- Laura Dennis vs. Jade (w/Marti Belle): Jade and Marti make their debut as the faction known as The Dollhouse. Laura gets a few shots in on Jade, before Jade blasts Laura in the back. Jade hits a gutwrench suplex. Jade and Marti both attack Laura causing a DQ and beat Laura down.

After The Match: Jade and Marti get pissed because Christy Hemme announces that Jade lost by DQ. Jade and Marti attack Christy and toss her into the barricade, then drop kick her into the steel steps.

- Backstage, Kurt Angle apologizes to Eric Young about what happened earlier, says he'll beat Austin Aries and promises EY the next title shot. EY says he doesn't want to hear it, he's tired of everything and isn't sure he wants to be here.

- In Ring Promo with Magnus and Mickie James: Mickie says dealing with Bram is finally over and now it's time for Mickie to return home and be a mom. James Storm interrupts and says he doesn't want to see her go just like all the fans and he knows she still loves wrestling. Magnus cuts in and says it was a hard decision to make. Storm says he loves her family but the fans love her. Storm talks Mickie into competing one more time and Magnus doesn't look happy.

- Davey Richards vs. Manik: Richards unloads kicks and a german suplex for a near fall. Richards goes to the top rope, but misses the double stomp. Manik rolls through, lands a kick and an underhook slam. Richards hits another kick and lands "Creeping Death" on Manik to score the pinfall.

- After The Match: Abyss and Khoya attack Richards. Abyss choke slams Richards, then goes for a second one. The Hardy Boys hit the ring and unload on Revolution. Abyss goes down and Knoya is sent into the steel steps. Manik gets laid out with a "Twist of Fate".

- In Ring Promo with Ethan Carter III and Tyrus: EC3 has been unbeaten for twenty months now and wants to be the World Champion this year. EC3 mocks the crowd, until Mr. Anderson interrupts. Anderson says EC3 has a great future ahead, but needs to shut up and earn a world championship. Anderson says it took him eleven years to win a world title. EC3 takes off his coat and says he's about to show Anderson he's championship material. EC3 and Anderson trade blows, until Anderson goes for a "Mic Check". EC3 and Tyrus escape from the ring.

- "TNA Knockouts Championship, No DQ Match": Taryn Terrell (c) vs. Awesome Kong: Terrell dodges a splash and drop kicks Kong in the corner. Terrell hits a top rope cross body for a near fall. Terrell hits Kong in the throat with a kendo stick. Kong blocks a cutter attempt and slams Terrell face first into a table. The Dollhouse, Jade and Marti, hit the ring and attack Kong with kendo sticks. Terrell power bombs Kong through a table, covers and scores the pinfall. Taryn Terrell retains the TNA Knockouts Championship.

After The Match: Terrell reveals herself as the leader of The Dollhouse faction. Terrell says everyone doubted that she could beat Kong, she proved everyone wrong, her new friends don't play nice cause this is their house.......The Dollhouse.

- Backstage, Eric Young and Austin Aries meet face to face. Aries tells EY he can have the first title shot after Aries beats Kurt Angle.

- In Ring Promo with Austin Aries: Aries comes out to cash in Feast or Fired, but gets attacked from behind by Eric Young, who comes out of the crowd. EY hits Aries with his briefcase, piledrives Aries on the floor, knocks out TNA security, then piledrives Aries again on the steel steps. Kurt Angle hits the ring, shoves EY and tells him to leave. EY attacks Angle and stomps Angle's head into the steel steps. EY takes off Angle's knee brace and unloads chair shots on Angle's legs. EY busts Angle wide open, then locks on the figure four submission. EY applies the pressure to Angle's leg as TNA officials hit the ring as Impact closes out.

That wraps up this weeks TNA Impact, till next time, tap or snap.

~B~

TV Weekend 4.24 - 4.25

By @nevaRWilliams

Grimm (FRI, NBC, 8pm)
Shark Tank (FRI, ABC, 8pm)
The Amazing Race (FRI, CBS, 8pm)
Cold Justice (FRI, TNT, 8pm)
Cedric's Barber Battle (FRI, The CW, 8pm)
Girl Meets World (FRI, Disney, 8:30pm)

The Messengers (FRI, The CW, 9pm)
Meet The Smiths (FRI, TBS, 9pm)
iMPACT Wrestling (FRI, Destination America, 9pm)
Bruce Jenner -- The Interview (FRI, ABC, 9pm)
Hawaii Five-O (FRI, CBS, 9pm)
Blue Bloods (FRI, CBS, 10pm)
------

Orphan Black (SAT, BBC America, 9pm)
Outlander (SAT, STARZ, 9pm)
REPEAT: Saturday Night Live, Chris Hemsworth, Zac Brown Band (SAT, NBC, 11:30pm)
======

MLB
Indians @ Tigers (FRI, STO, 7pm)
Mets @ Yankees OR Red Sox @ Orioles (FRI, MLB Network, 7pm)

Indians @ Tigers (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 1pm)
Mets @ Yankees (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 4pm)
Dodgers @ Padres OR Giants @ Rockies (SAT, MLB Network, 8:30pm)

NBA PLAYOFFS
Rockets @ Mavericks, Game 3, Rockets Lead 2-0 (FRI, ESPN, 7pm)
Raptors @ Wizards, Game 3, Wizards Lead 2-0 (FRI, ESPN 2, 8pm)
Clippers @ Spurs, Game 3, Tied at 1-1 (FRI, ESPN, 9:30pm)

Hawks @ Nets, Game 3, Hawks Lead 2-0 (SAT, TNT, 3pm)
Bulls @ Bucks, Game 4, Bulls Lead 3-0 (SAT, TNT, 5:30pm)
Warriors @ Pelicans, Game 4, Warriors Lead 3-0 (SAT, ESPN, 8pm)
Grizzlies @ Trail Blazers, Game 3, Grizzlies Lead 2-0 (SAT, ESPN, 10:30pm)

NHL PLAYOFFS
Senators @ Canadiens, Game 5, Canadiens Lead 3-1 (FRI, CNBC, 7pm)
Penguins @ Rangers, Game 5, Rangers Lead 3-1 (FRI, NBC Sports, 7pm)
Wild @ Blues, Game 5, Tied at 2-2 (FRI, NBC Sports, 9:30pm)

Capitals @ Islanders, Game 6, Capitals Lead 3-2 (SAT, NBC, 3pm)
Red Wings @ Lightning, Game 5, Tied at 2-2 (SAT, NBC Sports, 6pm)
Predators @ Blackhawks, Game 6, Blackhawks Lead 3-2 (SAT, NBC, 8pm)
Canucks @ Flames, Game 6, Flames Lead 3-2 (SAT, NBC Sports, 9pm)

FOOTBALL
NFL Championship Chase: The Draft (SAT, CBS, 2pm)
LFL: Lingerie Football League (SAT, FUSE, 9pm)

MMA & BOXING
Golden Boy Like: Rocky Juarez vs. Robinson Castellanos (FRI, FOX Sports Ohio, 8pm)
Premier Boxing Champions (FRI, SPIKE, 9pm)

UFC Prefight Show (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 7pm)
UFC 186: Johnson vs. Horiguchi - Prelims (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 8pm)
BOXING: Bryant Jennings vs. Wladimir Klitschko (SAT, HBO, 10pm)

GOLF
Zurich Classic of New Orleans, Third Round (SAT, CBS, 3pm)

NASCAR
XFINITY Series: ToyotaCare 250 (FRI, FOX Sports 1, 7:30pm)

NASCAR Pre-Race (SAT, FOX, 6pm)
Sprint Cup Series: Toyota Owners 400 (SAT, FOX, 7pm)

SOCCER
EPL: Manchester City FC vs. Aston Villa FC (SAT, NBC, 12:30pm)

OTHER SPORTS
Track And Field: Penn Relays (SAT, NBC Sports, 12:30pm)
College Baseball: Texas A&M @ LSU (SAT, ESPN, 2pm)
World of X Games: AFP World Tour Finals: Whistler (SAT, ABC, 3pm)
Motorcycle Racing: Monster Energy Supercross (SAT, FOX, 3pm)
College Softball: Texas @ Texas A&M (SAT, FOX Sports Ohio, 3pm)
Track And Field: Drake Relays (SAT, NBC Sports, 3pm)
NHRA Drag Racing: O'Reilly Auto Parts SpringNationals, Qualifying (SAT, ESPN 2, 5pm)
College Baseball: Florida State @ Miami (SAT, ESPNU, 7pm)

Inside The Batter's Box 4.24.15: #Indians vs. #Tigers Preview

By @B_Rock1978

Is it time to hit the panic button Tribe fans? Can we just forget that this series against the White Sox ever happened? Another very disappointing series from our Tribe the past three days. Worst of all, again it was to another team in our division. We now stand at 3-8 against our divisional teams.
(Que Price Is Right waa waa waa waaaaaaaaa defeat music here.)

Game one, Ryan Raburn got things going for the Tribe in the second inning, launching a solo shot. Raburn finished 2 for 3 with an RBI. "Dr. Smooth" Michael Brantley unloaded a double in the third inning, picking up an RBI. Top of the fifth, Brett Hayes, delivered another solo shot and the Tribe looked like they were well on their way to a win. Or so we thought. Tribe closer, Cody Allen, gets rocked in the bottom of the ninth, gives up 4 runs and the ChiSox turn a 3-0 score into a 4-3 win. You got to be kidding?!

Game two, saw both Carlos Santana and David Murphy launch the long ball. Ryan Raburn continued to hit well, going 2 for 2 with 2 RBI. "Dr. Smooth" Michael Brantley added an RBI single. Jason Kipnis sac flied in an RBI. Carlos Carrasco went 5 innings, giving up 1 ER, 8 strikeouts and no walks. Cody Allen pitched the ninth, held onto the lead this time, recording 2 strikeouts and the Tribe won 6-2.

Game three, was a complete nightmare. Tribe ace, Corey Kluber is pitching, we got this right? Wrong! Kluber gets his glove handed to him by the ChiSox. Kluber goes six innings, but gives up 13 hits, 6 ER, 6 strikeouts and 1 walk. Meanwhile, Jeff Samardzija, completely shuts down the Tribe in six innings. The Tribe lose 6-0 and lose the series to the ChiSox. Good grief!!

Next up, the Indians kick off a three game set with divisional rivals, the Detroit Tigers, in Detroit. In case you forgot, the Tigers swept the Tribe in their opening weekend series. Looking back at that series, and looking at how the Tribe have played since that series, I'm honestly scared Tribe fans. How did the Tigers do this week? The Tigers battled the Evil Empire, aka the New York Yankees, in a four game set. Let's take a look at how the Tigers did in their series with the Yanks and who our Tribe will have to watch out for in this series.

Game one, J.D. Martinez got the Tigers on the board in the bottom of the seventh with an RBI single. Yoenis Cespedes followed with another RBI single. Alfredo Simon goes 7 1/3 innings, with 7 strikeouts and gave up no walks. Joakim Soria picks up save number 5 and the Tigers stayed hot, winning 2-1.

Game two, J.D. Martinez went 3 for 4, but wasn't an RBI threat. Yoenis Cespedes picked up a sac fly RBI in the seventh inning. Rajai Davis drew a walk in the ninth with the bases loaded, picking up an RBI. Kyle Lobstein went six innings, with 1 ER, 3 strikeouts and 4 walks. The Tigers bullpen collapsed in the seventh inning, however, and the Yanks grab the 5-2 win. 

Game three, the Tigers put four on the board in the bottom of the first. J.D. Martinez picked up another RBI in the series, drawing a walk with the bases loaded. Yoenis Cespedes picked up an RBI with an infield single. Nick Castellanos grounded out into a fielders choice, picking up an RBI. Alex Avila singled in an RBI during his at bat. The Tigers were shut down the rest of the way, losing to the Yankees 13-4.

Game four, Victor Martinez gets a sac fly RBI, but that's all the Tigers can muster as the Yankees cool off the Tigers 2-1 and take the series.

*** Starters For The Series ***

* Tigers *

- Game 1: Shane Green (3-0), makes his fourth start of the year, winning every start this year so far. Green stands with a 0.39 ERA, 11 strikeouts and 5 walks.

- Game 2: Alfredo Simon (3-0), makes his fourth start of the season, sitting at three perfect apperances. Simon takes the mound with a 1.74 ERA, 12 strikeouts and 2 walks.

- Game 3: Kyle Lobstein (1-1), makes his third start of the season, having a decision on all starts so far as well. Lobstein has a 3.27 ERA, 6 strikeouts and 6 walks.

* Indians *

- Game 1:  Danny Salazar (1-0), makes his second start of the year, after being called up from AAA last weekend. Salazar has a 3.00 ERA, with 10 strikeouts and 2 walks on the season.

- Game 2: Trevor Bauer (2-0), makes his fourth start of the year. Bauer, is currently the only original starter from season's beginning, that has had a good year so far. Bauer checks in with a 0.95 ERA, 26 strikeouts and 11 walks.

- Game 3: Carlos Carrasco (2-1), makes his fourth start of the year. Carrasco has a 2.38 ERA, 18 strikeouts and 1 walk on the year.

There is your Indians vs. Tigers preview, continue to join me all season, with Inside The Batter's Box. I'll bring you series previews, recaps, videos and pictures, on the Triple Threat CLE Twitter and Facebook pages.

~B~

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 4.24.15: #SmackDown & #NXT Recap

By @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE.  It's this week's NXT and Smackdown recaps for the week.

*** NXT ***

- NXT was taped in Orlando Florida, at Full Sail University.

- Finn Balor vs. Tye Dillinger: Dillinger gets a small amount of offense in, but it's not enough. Balor hits the pele kick, the "Slingblade" and hits the corner drop kick. Balor goes up top and hits the double foot stomp on Dillinger and scores the pinfall.

- Backstage, Tyler Breeze refers to Finn Balor as the "Flavor of the Month", while Breeze has been dominating since he debuted in NXT.

- Backstage, Dana Brooke, states that her debut was the rebirth of the Women's Division. NXT is her playground and playtime is over.

- Backstage, Kevin Owens gives Alex Riley credit for their match a few weeks back. Tonight's rematch won't be any different, Owens will walk out the victor.

- "Triple Threat Match": Bayley vs. Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair: Lynch locks in a submission hold on Bayley and it looks like Bayley is about to tap out. Charlotte, however, hits "Natural Selection" and breaks the submission. Charlotte gets Lynch up for a power bomb and Bayley hits a diving clothesline. Charlotte locks Bayley in the "Figure Eight" submission, however, Lynch covers Bayley and Charlotte can't break the submission in time as Lynch steals the pinfall.

- Hideo Itami vs. C.J. Parker: Parker tries to slow down Itami with mat wrestling and rest holds. Itami lights Parker up with kicks, chops and an arm drag. Itami hits the stalling drop kick in the corner, then follows up with the running kick on Parker. Itami covers and scores the pinfall.

- Backstage, NXT Women's Champion Sasha Banks, makes fun of Becky Lynch. Banks says Lynch doesn't stand a chance winning the title. Lynch says she's "Kind of a Big Deal".

- Rhyno vs. A Local Wrestler: Rhyno with the "Gore" and he scores the pinfall, in what was probably a thirty second match.

- Kevin Owens vs. Alex Riley: Owens uses power moves and rest holds on Riley. Riley hits a clothesline, a snap neckbreaker and climbs the ropes. Owens crotches Riley on the ropes, countering the top rope move. Owens hits the corner cannonball, then the pop up power bomb on Riley. Owens covers and scores the pinfall.

- After The Match: Owens goes for the apron power bomb on Riley. Sami Zayn hits the ring and unloads on Owens. NXT officials rush the ring and try to separate the two men. Zayn suicide dives over the ropes and takes out Owens and the officials. Owens crawls away and escapes backstage, as Zayn dares him to fight, closing out NXT.

*** SmackDown ***

- Smackdown was taped this week in Providence, Rhode Island. This show served as the final show going into this Sunday's Extreme Rules event.

- In Ring Promo with Seth Rollins: Rollins talks about Extreme Rules and he doesn't need Kane's help. Kane interrupts and reminds Rollins he could either help him secure a big win or a big defeat. Rollins says Kane only has his job cause Triple H feels sorry for him. Kane says he laid down for Rollins last week, now Rollins should lay down for him, because that is what's best for business. Kane gets a referee in the ring, officially starts the match and threatens to rip Rollins' guts out if he doesn't lay down. Rollins tells Kane to calm down and lays down. Kane says he was just messing with Rollins, instead Rollins will fight Dean Ambrose.

- Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose: Luke Harper shows up and watches from the stage. Ambrose unloads on Rollins, Mercury, Noble and Harper. Rollins and Harper finally over power Ambrose and beat him down. Roman Reigns hits the ring and saves his former Shield brother.

- Dolph Ziggler and Neville vs. Bad News Barrett and Sheamus: Barrett hits "Wasteland" on Ziggler. Ziggler hits a DDT. Barrett goes for "Winds of Change", but Ziggler counters, tags Neville without Barrett knowing and hits "Zig Zag" on Barrett. Neville climbs the ropes and hits "Red Arrow" on Barrett for the pinfall.

- Nattie Neidhart vs. Naomi: Nattie counters a Naomi rollup and locks Naomi in the "Sharpshooter" submission. Naomi escapes and sends Nattie into the turnbuckles. Naomi hits Nattie with "Rear View" and scores the pinfall.

- Ryback vs. Rusev: Ryback lands a kick and a power slam for a near fall. Ryback hits another kick, a spine buster and hits the "Meat Hook" for a near fall. Ryback goes for the "Shell Shock", but Rusev rolls out of the ring. Ryback follows and wins by DQ, after Rusev grabs his steel chain and hits Ryback in the stomach with it.

- After The Match: Rusev wraps the chain around his fist and blasts Ryback with a punch. Rusev then applies "The Accolade" on a knocked out Ryback.

- Kofi Kingston vs. Cesaro: Cesaro hits a spine buster, then goes for the "Cesaro Swing". Xavier Woods gets on the apron, but gets knocked off by Tyson Kidd. Big E takes out Kidd, which distracts Cesaro. Kofi hits Cesaro with "Trouble in Paradise" and scores the pinfall.

- Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins and Luke Harper: Ambrose hits the rebound clothesline on Rollins, then goes for "Dirty Deeds". Harper stops it, but gets tossed to the floor by Ambrose. Ambrose climbs the ropes and hits a splash on everyone. Kane grabs Rollins and rolls him back in the ring. Reigns is in, spears Rollins and scores the pinfall. Ambrose and Reigns celebrate to end the show.

And that's this week's Smackdown/NXT recap. Have a great weekend, till next time, tap or snap.

~B~

The Puck Drops Here 4.24.15: Columbus #BlueJackets & Lake Erie Monsters #CBJ

By @CLulovics

The question of many hockey fans in the state of Ohio that has been asked for many years has finally been answered. The Columbus Blue Jackets and the Lake Erie Monsters have come to a multi year agreement in which the Lake Erie Monsters owned by Dan Gilbert and the Cavs will be the farm team (AHL) of the Columbus Blue Jackets. At a press conference in Cleveland representatives from the Cavs in Len Komoroski, CEO, Cavs and The Q and Kerry Bubolz, President of Business Operations for the Cavs as well as Blue Jackets John Davidson (President of hockey operations) and Chris MacFarland (assistant General Manager) answered questions and introduced themselves to fans of both teams. The deal has finally happened after years of fans wanting both teams to come together as it is only a 2 or 2 and a half hour drive depending on if you do the speed limit or not between both cities. As an organizational standpoint it makes perfect sense because at times during a morning skate or if a player becomes sick it is a lot easier now for a player to drive down to Columbus and get their quicker as opposed to trying to catch a flight at the last minute as was the way it was done in years past.

Fans of both organizations can now watch both teams and how well the prospects are doing in Cleveland. Before when the Monsters were the farm team of the Colorado Avalanche it was hard for fans to watch the players they became fans of play when they were called up to the NHL because the games were not carried in Ohio. Now fans can watch their favorite players in Cleveland play in the NHL when they are called up on Fox Sports Ohio.

Personally I can't wait until October when the puck drops as hockey in Cleveland and Columbus. When the Blue Jackets have an off day and the Monsters play at The Q everyone can benefit and watch the future of the Jackets play. Another benefit is that the Monsters have finished in the top 10 in attendance the past couple of years as this past year they finished 3rd overall in league attendance. Another great thing about this agreement is not a lot of players in the minor league will have the amenities that The Q has to offer and with an owner like Dan Gilbert who doesn't like to lose will help this team reach its full potential.

Hockey is growing in the state of Ohio and the greater Cleveland and Columbus area and this will help both cities continue to grow. The future just became brighter and fans of both cities and both organizations will benefit. As always Carry The Flag, Battle On, We Are The Fifth Line, and a new one #AllofUS

TV Tonight 4.23

By @nevaRWilliams

NBA PLAYOFFS
Cavaliers @ Celtics, Game 3, Cavs Lead 2-0 (TNT, 7pm)
Bulls @ Bucks, Game 3, Bulls Lead 2-0 (NBA TV, 8pm)
Warriors @ Pelicans, Game 3, Warriors Lead 2-0 (TNT, 9:30pm)

MLB
Royals @ White Sox OR Athletics @ Angels (MLB Network, 8pm)

NHL PLAYOFFS
Lightning @ Red Wings, Game 4, Red Wings Lead 2-1 (NBC Sports, 7pm)
Islanders @ Capitals, Game 5, Tied 2-2 (CNBC, 7pm)
Blackhawks @ Predators, Game 5, Blackhawks Lead 3-1 (NBC Sports, 9:30pm)
Flames @ Canucks, Game 5, Flames Lead 3-1 (CNBC, 10pm)

NFL
Mel & Todd's Mock Draft (ESPN 2, 7pm)

OTHER SPORTS
College Softball: Tennessee @ Alabama (ESPN, 8pm)
===

WWE SmackDown (SyFy, 8pm)
The Vampire Diaries (The CW, 8pm)
The Blacklist (NBC, 8pm)
Grey's Anatomy (ABC, 8pm)
Bones (FOX, 8pm)
The Big Bang Theory (CBS, 8pm)
The Odd Couple (CBS, 8:30pm)

The Blacklist (NBC, 9pm)
Scandal (ABC, 9pm)
Backstrom (FOX, 9pm)
The Big Bang Theory (CBS, 9pm)
Reign (The CW, 9pm)
Party Down South (CMT, 9pm)
Mom (CBS, 9:30pm)

The Comedians (FX, 10pm)
Lip Sync Battle: Mike Tyson vs. Terry Crews (SPIKE, 10pm)
Olympus (SyFy, 10pm)
Vikings SEASON FINALE (History Channel, 10pm)
American Crime (ABC, 10pm)
Elementary (CBS, 10pm)
Dig (USA, 10pm)
Ridiculousness (MTV, 10pm)
Louie (FX, 10:30pm)

Cliff's Edge 4.23.15: #Cavs V. #Celtics Game 2 & Game 3

By @CLG2282

It was not as pretty as I expected but the Cleveland Cavaliers got the job done.  This is definitely one of those instances where you have to roll with the adage "A win is a win."

Game 2 in the Cavs versus Celtics playoff series opened up just as, if not more, grueling for the home team.  While we were all hoping that they would make adjustments from their Game 1 mistakes, the Cavs limped into the second game of the series much like they did the first.

The very first possession was a Kevin Love 3pt FG and LeBron James was credited with the assist.  On the next Cleveland possession the offense executed perfectly and found Timofey Mozgov inside the paint after running a nice set.  But at that point, things got a little tad rough.

Boston began the game moving and executing fairly well on their offensive end.  After quickly falling behind 5-1, the Celtics responded to the Cavs' exciting start taking a 16- lead after a 15-3 run.  Boston hit shots from inside, the perimeter and also got to the free-throw line during the early stretch.  They executed quite well in the half-court throughout the majority of the first half.

Both offenses decided to show their Jekyll and Hyde styles of play in the first 24 minutes of basketball.  The Cavs answered Boston's run immediately with an 8-0 run of their own as well as regaining some momentum.  The scoring spurt was started by a defensive stop and a fast-break lay-up by Kryie Irving who posted another solid 1st half with 12 points (9 in the 1st quarter) and 2 assists.   The Cavs stole the ball on Boston's next possessions and LeBron found Mozgov in transition for a dynamic dunk over Tyler Zeller. After another stop, Mozgov scored on another dunk to cap the 8-0 run.

I wish I had an explanation for the sporadic play of the Cavs but it baffles me as much as anyone.  It's like they forget for brief moments they are the Cavs and do not know how to play well.  Or it could be just that they know exactly who they are and get lazy resting on their ability to score quickly and in bunches.

The Celtics who look to be the hungrier team kept consistent energy on both ends of the floor well into the second half while the Cavs fluctuated for the entire game.  They had an 8-0 run of their own mid way through the 2nd quarter which was quickly answered by another 8-0 run by the Cavs.  Surprisingly, 4 of the 8 points were scored by Kevin Love in very rare low post touches. And back and forth the game went ending with a 51-50 Cavs lead at the Half.

It was Boston to who played more efficiently during the first two quarters but there were a lot of bright spots for the Cavs coming out of the half.  JR Smith, who continued to struggle from the field, tallied his 5th steal with 9:52 left in the 3^rd, matching high playoff and career high for a single game.  That is a lot of defense for one man that EARLY in the game. Also, with still more than seven minutes left in the 3rd quarter had put together a quite the stat line posting 14pts (7/11 FGs) 6 rebs 5 blks.  His defensive impact was probably the most underrated aspect in all of game 2.

The spark that ignited the Cavs to seal the game late ended up begin their defense that lead to quick and energetic offense.  To huge and emphatic alley-oop dunk(James to Love and Irving to James) got the crowd really into the game.  The two jams also had an equally electrifying effect on players, especially the animated bench.  Two highlight dunks and JR Smith's first and only made 3-point field goal were what the Cavs needed to get over the hump.  Cleveland put the pedal to the metal and opened up a 15-2 scoring run late in the third.

The 4th quarter was all LeBron James.  James had one of those quarters that bolsters the resume of an all-time great. LeBron figuratively put the Cavs on his back.  Through the first 3 or 4 minutes, James was the only Cavs player to attempt a shot or record a rebound.  In addition to a steal, James had a key block on Zeller as the Celtics were threatening late and closed the Cavs' lead to just two points.  All in all, LBJ had 15 of his 30 point in the the 4th quarter alone.  It was a great way for James to step up and close out a big game.

One thing I do want to point out that probably will never be talked about is the Kyrie Irving evolving as a leader.  Coming out of a timeout late in the 4th quarter Irving tapped JR Smith, who had recently missed another shot from behind the arc, and offered encouragement.  Smith at the time had a blank stare of frustration and Irving gave Smith a slight nudge and told him to "keep shooting it".  Smith nodded in confirmation and they did one of the dozens of handshake used by Cavs players. Good sign as a star player and upcoming leader on the big stage.

I know I expected much more of the Cavs in the early going and I'm sure much of you did as well.  These late starts will cost the team much more in future rounds.  Complete games are going to be key as the Cavs advance.  Late game success is necessary as well.  So I'm hoping to see the Cavs tweak the early woes in future game but as long as they are winning games, there is only so much one can complain about.  We will see what Thursday has to hold.  It isn't the old Boston Garden but playing on the road in Boston is always a difficult task in the playoffs.  I would not be surprised if the Celtics were able to edge out a win in game 3.

But its always #GoCavs #OATW and most definitely #CLEvelandOverEverything

Email: CLGMedia22@gmail.com
IG: @CLG2282