By Gary Shelton, Times sports columnist
Saturday, April 28, 2012

TAMPA

It is time for the marketing experts to go to work. It is time for an infomercial and a pitchman. Maybe a catchy slogan.

Why, the Bucs are new and improved. They will go faster, they will last longer and their games will leave you with a minty aftertaste. They have been repacked and redesigned, and they would like it very much if you would buy into their product. After all, they are stronger! They are faster! They are bolder!

They have had the best offseason in the NFL. They had a great free agent period. They completed a terrific draft on Sunday. The coach seems more organized, and the general manager seems more aggressive, and the ownership seems more serious about winning.

Yep, the Tampa Bay Bucs are better.

But are they good yet?

That's the money question, isn't it? Everyone seems to agree that the Bucs have been an extremely impressive team once the extremely unimpressive meltdown of 2011 was complete. They have added, minimum, five new starters. They have made improvements in almost every unit on the field. There seems to be a fresh urgency throughout the organization.

On the other hand, few teams in the NFL needed to improve more than the Bucs did. So how do all of the improvements translate?

Are the Bucs now a .500 team? A wild-card team? A contender in the NFC South? Can they win six games? Eight? 10? What should be the new expectations of these new Bucs?

"Work in progress," coach Greg Schiano said. "I don't know. I wish I had one of those big thermometers they use during fundraisers that say, 'we're this close.' We won't know until we get out there and play against other teams. But I feel, 'Hey, we're moving this closer.' "

Give the Bucs credit for this. They are light-years better than the miserable team that trudged off the field on Jan. 1 after losing their 10th straight game. It was a horrible stretch, one series of throwing-in-the-towel competitions, and it didn't surprise anyone when it ended the tenure of coach Raheem Morris.

Since then, the Bucs have rebuilt their franchise as if they were restoring a wrecked car, which, in a way, they were. They have knocked out a dent here, and repainted here, and replaced a handful of parts.

"Yes, we have gotten better," general manager Mark Dominik said, "from the new coaching staff and how they are interacting with the players on our roster. Our team is heading in the right direction."

Ask yourself this: Except for their kickers, where aren't the Bucs better? The quarterback should be better, because Josh Freeman is in better shape, because they have a backup who at least has won two NFL games (the departed Josh Johnson never won a start).

The receiving corps should be better, because Vincent Jackson is a playmaker. Not only that, but Mike Williams should flourish with less attention as the No. 2, and Arrelious Benn as the No. 3, and so forth.

The running back position should be better, because Doug Martin will be a more complete back than LeGarrette Blount and Michael Smith has a chance to be a nice third-down back.

The offensive line, with the addition of guard Carl Nicks, should be better. The defensive line, with Gerald McCoy and Brian Price healthy again, should be better.

The linebackers, with Lavonte David (and possibly Najee Goode filling in), should be better. The secondary, with Mark Barron and Eric Wright, should be better.

And the coaching? Let's be honest. No one knows if Schiano will make a successful transition from the college game to the pro game. So far, however, there is a new energy. Schiano seems to have an idea of what he wants to do. He also has restored the line between coaches and players, a line that seemed blurred under Morris. At the end, Morris was that popular substitute teacher that the students eventually took advantage of, and as a result, the classroom turned to chaos.

So what does it all mean? Maybe not much.

"Even with the improvement, I think Tampa Bay is the fourth-best team in that division," oddsmaker Danny Sheridan said Saturday. "They're still among the seven worst teams of the league."

After last season, Sheridan suggested he saw the Bucs' over-under for this year at five wins. Now, he has upped that to 6½.

"I think they'll beat Minnesota, Kansas City, Carolina at home and St. Louis, and they'll win a couple of upsets," said Sheridan, who said he did like the team's free agent signings. "It's about time the Glazers stopped spending on Man U and bought American."

Again, the Bucs have fewer holes, and more hope, than they have had. They are better, and they may even be on their way to being good.

This year? Oh, 8-8 sounds about right.

If that sounds low to you, then the Bucs have made you believe again. In an offseason of renewed hope, that's not a bad move, either.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Brandon Allen may not get another hit for the Rays as big as his first, a two-run pinch-hit walkoff homer that won Thursday's game.

Heck, he may not get many more hits.

But the acquisition of the first baseman/outfielder — claimed off waivers from Oakland — already is considered a positive, the latest in a string of curiously good decisions in bringing in players discarded or ignored by others.

"Our Rays scouting department, I think, is the best there is," manager Joe Maddon said after Allen's game-winner. "It doesn't surprise me. When we put our mark on somebody, it's normally with good reason."

The gold standard always will be Carlos Peña. A one-time top prospect whose career appeared to have fizzled, if not flamed out, Peña was signed to a minor-league deal before the start of spring training 2007 and went on to hit 46 homers that season, make the All-Star team in 2009 and average 34 homers and 97 RBIs over 2007-11.

Another prized find was Dan Wheeler, a middling middle reliever with Houston who came over in a July 2007 trade (for Ty Wigginton) that Maddon still refers to as a key move in the launch of their run of success.

There are many others who, for whatever reason, fit in better with the Rays, or were used in a better way by the Rays, than elsewhere. (And certainly some misses along the way.)

Eric Hinske, Gabe Gross, Willy Aybar, Casey Kotchman on the offensive side. J.P. Howell, Grant Balfour, Joaquin Benoit, Juan Cruz and Joel Peralta in the 'pen.

"It seems to be the way things work around this organization; that they seem to find guys that just do the right things at the right times," catcher Chris Gimenez said. "There must be an art to that."

Identifying and acquiring players who can help, and fit in their limited budget, is the product of extensive work by the pro scouting staff and what the Rays call their Baseball Research & Development department.

Having them fit in and feel comfortable and using them in the right spots is on Maddon and his coaches.

"This team is just great to be around," pitcher Brandon Gomes said. "It really does bring out the best in everybody."

Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@tampabay.com

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Evan Longoria got a figurine, a T-shirt and a prominent place on the redecorated Tropicana Field wall, among other accolades, commemorating his Game 162-ending, playoffs-clinching home run last season. • Dan Johnson, who hit the home run with two outs in the ninth inning that made Longoria's home run possible, got a text message from a friend telling him a white seat had been installed to mark where his ball landed.

The residuals have been a little different for the other hero of the Rays' improbable final-night dramatics.

While Longoria has been feted and again, Johnson is toiling in the minors for the Triple-A Charlotte Knights (after two three-run homers Saturday, he is hitting .303 with three homers, 17 RBIs and an impressive .466 on-base percentage) after a spring bid to make the White Sox roster didn't pan out.

What Johnson, 32, is hoping for, and without an out clause in his contract, waiting for, is a chance to get back to the big leagues, which frustratingly never came during the winter.

"That would be the ultimate," he said. "I'm not still playing this game to be in the minor leagues. I'm playing to get back to the top. And I have a lot of good years left."

Johnson has his jersey and the bat from his homer — which Rays 2B/RF Ben Zobrist calls "the most clutch hit I've ever seen" — and some splendid memories he has shared in a few interviews, but that's about it. (Neither he nor the Rays got the ball back.)

"It was crazy how it worked out," Johnson said. "I still can't believe it. You couldn't write a script about it."

There has been some chatter that the Rays should bring Johnson in to be honored, but he said right now, he's only interested in coming back as a player. (And thus was surprised to hear Brandon Allen was claimed as he didn't know the Rays were looking for another lefty-swinging, power-hitting first base/outfield type, noting, "I kind of fit that role.")

And if he were to return, what about that white seat behind the rightfield foul pole that should at least have his name on it?

"I'd want to sit a little closer," he said.

Among others who moved on from last year's team:

1B Casey Kotchman, Indians: Playing regularly but not playing well; hitting only .143, snapping an 0-for-24 skid Friday, with a .239 on-base percentage.

OF/DH Johnny Damon, Indians: Ignored all spring, signed a minor-league deal in April; working out at their Arizona base with a plan to go to Triple A then the big leagues in early May as the primary leftfielder.

RHP Juan Cruz, Pirates: Earned a job in the bullpen this spring and has done well thus far with a win, two saves and a 0.00 ERA in eight appearances through Friday.

C John Jaso, Mariners: Traded for RHP Josh Lueke; is pretty much the backup to Miguel Olivo, starting three times in the first three weeks.

C Kelly Shoppach, Red Sox: Aside from his 4-for-7 festival against the Rays that included a stolen base, has done little; .211 (4-for-19) against everyone else through Friday as Jarrod Saltalamacchia's backup

RHP Andy Sonnanstine, free agent: After signing with the Cubs, refused an end-of-spring assignment to Triple-A Iowa and became a free agent; is back at his home in St. Petersburg enjoying the mental break and working out regularly, in his words, "to be ready if the right opportunity presents itself."

OF Justin Ruggiano, Astros Triple A: Playing at Oklahoma City; .263 average, 1 HR, 11 RBIs in 21 games through Friday.

RHP Adam Russell, Braves Triple A: Pitching at Gwinnett; 3-0, 2.45 ERA and one save in nine games through Friday.

Other 2011 Rays

On the disabled list: Robinson Chirinos, Kyle Farnsworth, Sam Fuld, Jose Lobaton

In minors: Reid Brignac, Jay Buente, Russ Canzler (Indians), Alex Cobb, Rob Delaney (Marlins), Dane De La Rosa, Mike Ekstrom (Rockies), Brandon Guyer, Cesar Ramos, Alex Torres

Inactive: Felipe Lopez, Manny Ramirez (serving suspension)

Rays rumblings

So much for the big Trop crowds. The question this week is if they draw more than 10,000 for any of the Mariners games. … Carlos Peña was the 1,221st player to reach 1,000 hits and first with a homer since Royals OF Jeff Francoeur in September. … A calendar featuring Rays players and their dogs is coming out this week. … DH Hideki Matsui, expected to finalize a minor-league contract soon, is still a big deal in Japan and to Japanese media. … All-Star voting starts Monday at the Trop. … Peña asked an interesting question: If bunting is frowned upon late in games that aren't close, what about teams shifting?

Got a minute? Brandon Gomes

Something you're scared of? I hate snakes; any and all kinds.

Go-to karaoke song? Green Day's Longview.

Favorite TV show? Dexter.

What would be your rapper name? Let's go with Little B Geezy.

Celebrity crush? Olivia Wilde. Still.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Blue Jays 7, Mariners 0

TORONTO — Edwin Encarnacion's fourth career grand slam helped the Blue Jays end a four-game skid. Brandon Morrow won his second straight start and improved to 3-0 with a 1.89 ERA in three starts against the team that drafted him fifth overall in 2006 and traded him to Toronto in December 2009. Kevin Millwood fell to 2-8 with a 4.83 ERA in 13 starts against the Blue Jays.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Cardinals 7, Brewers 3

ST. LOUIS — Yadier Molina tied his career high with four hits, including a two-run homer, for the Cardinals. The homer, to leftfield with one out in the sixth, broke a tie at 3. Despite walking four, two more than in his first four starts combined, Kyle Lohse improved to 4-0 for the first time in his career. The three runs he allowed matched his total in the four starts.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Angels 2, Indians 1

CLEVELAND — Dan Haren's strong outing helped the Angels end a five-game skid and improve to 1-6 in one-run games. Torii Hunter's solo homer in the fourth made it 2-0 and was only the Angels' fifth homer over their past 104 innings. Meanwhile, the Indians' homer drought reached 10 games, their longest since 14 from April 10-22, 1983. Scott Downs, given the closer's role Friday, earned only his second save over the past three seasons and the Angels' second in eight chances this year.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Tigers 7, Yankees 5

NEW YORK — Andy Dirks, playing for arrested leftfielder Delmon Young, hit a three-run homer in the first to help Drew Smyly earn his first career win and the Tigers end a five-game skid. The homer came after Prince Fielder was intentionally walked. Dirks also ran down two balls that looked like they would fall for extra-base hits.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Reds 6, Astros 0

CINCINNATI — Jay Bruce homered for the third consecutive game and added a two-run double for the Reds, who had lost the first two games of a nine-game homestand. Bruce's opposite-field double to left in the third, which made it 4-0, hit the yellow foul line painted on the wall. He made it 6-0 with a 417-foot shot to right. Johnny Cueto shut down an Astros team that had hit .301 over the first four games of a six-game road trip.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

DENVER — The Rockies placed RHP Jeremy Guthrie on the disabled list Saturday for an injury sustained when he fell off his bike.

Guthrie is a biking enthusiast who often rode to games when he pitched for the Orioles, who traded him to the Rockies this past offseason. He was riding to Coors Field on Friday when the chain came off his bike, sending him to the ground and jamming his right shoulder.

An MRI exam showed no structural damage for Guthrie, Colorado's opening day starter, and he threw lightly on the side Saturday. Manager Jim Tracy said he was dealing with pain in his AC joint and would "miss a couple of starts."

"Thanks for all the thoughts guys," tweeted Guthrie, who was supposed to start Saturday. "Freak accident but I'm grateful there is no damage, just some pain. Will be back for teammates and fans soon."

Young to be evaluated

The Tigers placed LF/DH Delmon Young on the restricted list and said he will be evaluated under baseball's employee assistance program after Friday's arrest.

Young, who will not be paid while on the list, faces a hate crime harassment charge after an encounter at his New York hotel during which police say he yelled anti-Semitic epithets.

Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski said he expects Young to play if he is cleared by the evaluation, which could happen as soon as Monday.

"He's accused of a misdemeanor," he said. "If he's cleared to play, he will play."

Howard to Clearwater: Phillies 1B Ryan Howard, who hasn't played this year because of an infection near his surgically repaired left Achilles' tendon, will head to Clearwater today to work out. He hopes to start hitting this week, but there is no timetable for a game. Phillies 2B Chase Utley, who hasn't played this year because of chronically bad knees, is expected to go to Clearwater later this week. But he also doesn't have a timetable for playing.

Harper debut: Nationals LF Bryce Harper, 19, the No. 1 overall pick in 2010 and considered to be baseball's top prospect, debuted against the Dodgers in Los Angeles. He grounded out to the pitcher in his first at-bat.

Williams auction: The plaque Red Sox star Ted Williams received for being the 1949 MVP sold for $299,000 at the first major auction of his memorabilia. Nearly 800 items were sold at Fenway Park with some proceeds benefiting the Jimmy Fund, a charity affiliated with the Red Sox. Other items included: a baseball Babe Ruth autographed with the inscription, "To my pal Ted Williams, From Babe Ruth" ($195,500), a 1957 Babe Ruth Sultan of Swat Award for outstanding batting achievement ($230,000), a used road jersey from 1955 ($126,500) and his Hall of Fame induction ring ($110,000). Williams also was a U.S. Marine pilot in World War II and the Korean War. Saints QB Drew Brees, who bid by phone, bought Williams' flight log books from both wars for $35,600 and planned to send them to The National World War II Museum in New Orleans.

Astros: Manager Brad Mills said he doesn't expect 1B Carlos Lee, who sprained his left ankle Friday, to be available until Monday at the earliest.

Blue Jays: RF Travis Snider, playing at Triple A, will miss at least a week after jamming his right wrist going after a ball.

Braves: C Brian McCann did not start but was available one day after straining a muscle in his right side. He said he feels "a lot better than I thought" and hopes to start Monday.

Brewers: RHP Vinnie Chulk was called up from Triple A. The reliever last pitched in the majors for the Indians in 2009.

Indians: Cold weather prevented RF Shin-Soo Choo from testing his strained left hamstring.

Giants: 2B Freddy Sanchez, recovering from offseason surgery on his left shoulder, will be shut down for a few days after straining his right shoulder while playing at Class A.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, April 28, 2012

TAMPA — The Bucs had plenty of beef in their backfield before Saturday with 250-pound bruiser LeGarrette Blount and 5-foot-10, 223-pound first-round pick Doug Martin.

Already, the Bucs had size. On Saturday, they believe they added some sizzle.

By drafting Utah State running back Michael Smith in the seventh round, Tampa Bay added the kind of speed it has rarely had. The 5-9, 205-pound Smith said he has run an unofficial personal best 4.26-second 40-yard dash during his predraft training, and ran 4.33 at his campus pro day. That would have matched the fastest time at the NFL scouting combine this year.

"Every time Mark (Dominik) and I watched tape, he would jump off the tape at you," coach Greg Schiano said. "It's just a different kind of speed than everybody else on the field. How we utilize that is going to be our job. … But speed wins, and this guy brings quite a bit of that."

Other teams had an interest in Smith, too. Dominik, the general manager, said another GM called offering a 2013 sixth-round pick for Smith, which the Bucs declined.

Smith figures to have a chance to become a change-of-pace back and likely has a good chance to make the roster because of his uniqueness. He'll battle the likes of Mossis Madu, an undrafted prospect who arrived last year from Oklahoma.

But Smith doesn't mention speed when asked about his best qualities. He instead stresses his willingness to play a complementary role, something he has been doing for quite some time.

"Yeah, I'm fast, but I feel like my mental toughness (is greater)," Smith said. "Like I said, I wasn't the starter at Utah State. I had Robert Turbin in front of me. He's a great running back, so I had to seize the opportunity when I got it. So, I believe (I have) mental toughness and not getting down on yourself when things don't go your way."

As a backup to Turbin, who was the Seahawks' fourth-round pick, Smith didn't have a chance to be a featured back. But Smith still rushed for 870 yards and nine touchdowns in 2011, averaging 7.6 yards per carry.

Smith finished with two of his best games — 121 yards in the regular-season finale against New Mexico State and 157 in a bowl matchup against Ohio.

Times staff, wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Two players with local ties were selected Saturday, the final day of the draft.

New Mexico State cornerback Jonte Green, a former Lakewood High star, was selected in the sixth round (196th overall) by the Lions.

The Bengals took Plant High standout and Georgia tight end Orson Charles in the fourth round. Charles was a consensus All-SEC in 2011 and projected early as a first or second-day pick, but a drunk driving charge last month might have contributed to his slide to Day 3.

Green was the only player from Pinellas County taken.

"I was waiting a while for a few teams to call," Green said. "I had an idea I was going to be picked around that time. To hear my name called was such a relief."

Last season Green had two interceptions and broke up 14 passes. On Saturday, he watched the draft at his mother's house in St. Petersburg with family and friends. "It was great to be in town and be around everyone," he said. "I just feel blessed."

Green was the third corner Detroit took, joining Louisiana-Lafayette's Dwight "Bill" Bentley in the third round and Albion's Chris Greenwood in the fifth.

DAY IN THE STATE: Florida colleges had 11 players taken Saturday after having no picks in the first round and four on Friday, all in the third round.

Linebacker Nigel Bradham was the first Florida State player taken, going in the fourth round, 105th overall, to the Bills. FSU hadn't gone that long without having a player selected since 1987, when the Jets took Gerald Nichols 187th overall.

Florida also waited much longer than usual. Defensive tackle Jaye Howard went to Seattle (Round 4, 114th). That was the longest Florida went without a pick since 1993, when Lawrence Hatch went 142nd overall to New England. In the fifth round, former Gator and Lakeland High running back/receiver Chris Rainey went to the Steelers.

Miami led the state with six picks, the most notable Saturday being running back Lamar Miller (fourth round, Dolphins)

For the first time in six years, no USF players were taken, but six Bulls agreed to deals as undrafted free agents.

Center Chaz Hine and cornerback Quenton Washington signed with the Bucs and will report for rookie minicamp starting Friday. Joining them in NFL camps will be running back Darrell Scott (Cowboys), guard Jeremiah Warren (Patriots), safety Jerrell Young (Jaguars) and receiver A.J. Love (Vikings).

"It's pretty awesome," said Hine, who played at Newsome High, then at USF and now can continue in the same county.

Former Boca Ciega and Louisville receiver Josh Bellamy said he signed with the Chiefs.

DRAFT DEALS: There were 27 trades over the three days of the draft. The Patriots, Vikings and 49ers made four trades each; only the Chiefs, Giants, Saints and Cardinals sat out.

AROUND THE LEAGUE: Vikings running back Caleb King, 24, was arrested on suspicion of assault, the Anoka (Minn.) County Sheriff's Office said. Authorities say King assaulted a 22-year-old man, causing skull and facial fractures and cuts. The man is hospitalized in serious condition.

Staff writers Bob Putnam and Greg Auman contributed to this report.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Marlins 3, Diamondbacks 2

MIAMI — Hanley Ramirez's two-out single in the ninth ended the Marlins' six-game skid. Giancarlo Stanton reached on a one-out infield single and advanced to second on Emilio Bonifacio's grounder to first. Jose Reyes was intentionally walked, but Ramirez sent a liner to left. Logan Morrison led off the eighth with a tying homer for Miami.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Phillies 5, Cubs 2

PHILADELPHIA — Jimmy Rollins, leading off for the first time this year, drove in two for the Phillies. Rollins spent the first 20 games batting third for the injured Chase Utley but had just three RBIs. Carlos Ruiz's two-run single in the fourth put Philadelphia up 2-1. With two outs, pitcher Joe Blanton walked to load the bases. Rollins' double ended an 0-for-13 slump and made it 4-1.

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

Arizona Cardinals

1 (13) Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

3 (80) Jamell Fleming, DB, Oklahoma

4 (112) Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi

5 (151) Senio Kelemete, G, Washington

6 (177) Justin Bethel, DB, Presbyterian

6 (185) Ryan Lindley, QB, San Diego State

7 (221) Nate Potter, OT, Boise State

Atlanta Falcons

2 (55) Peter Konz, G, Wisconsin

3 (91) Lamar Holmes, OT, Southern Miss

5 (157) Bradie Ewing, RB, Wisconsin

5 (164) Jonathan Massaquoi, DE, Troy

6 (192) Charles Mitchell, DB, Mississippi St.

7 (249)-x Travian Robertson, NT, S. Carolina

Baltimore Ravens

2 (35) Courtney Upshaw, LB, Alabama

2 (60) Kelechi Osemele, OT, Iowa State

3 (84) Bernard Pierce, RB, Temple

4 (98) Gino Gradkowski, G, Delaware

4 (130)-x Christian Thompson, DB, SC State

5 (169)-x Asa Jackson, DB, Cal Poly

6 (198) Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami

7 (236) DeAngelo Tyson, DE, Georgia

Buffalo Bills

1 (10) Stephon Gilmore, DB, South Carolina

2 (41) Cordy Glenn, OT, Georgia

3 (69) T.J. Graham, WR, N.C. State

4 (105) Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State

4 (124) Ron Brooks, DB, LSU

5 (144) Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State

5 (147) Tank Carder, LB, TCU

6 (178) Mark Asper, G, Oregon

7 (251)-x John Potter, K, Western Michigan

Carolina Panthers

1 (9) Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

2 (40) Amini Silatolu, G, Midwestern State

4 (103) Frank Alexander, DE, Oklahoma

4 (104) Joe Adams, WR, Arkansas

5 (143) Josh Norman, DB, Coastal Carolina

6 (207)-x Brad Nortman, P, Wisconsin

7 (216) D.J. Campbell, DB, California

Chicago Bears

1 (19) Shea McClellin, DE, Boise State

2 (45) Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

3 (79) Brandon Hardin, DB, Oregon State

4 (111) Evan Rodriguez, TE, Temple

6 (184) Isaiah Frey, DB, Nevada

7 (220) Greg McCoy, DB, TCU

Cincinnati Bengals

1 (17) Dre Kirkpatrick, DB, Alabama

1 (27) Kevin Zeitler, G, Wisconsin

2 (53) Devon Still, DT, Penn State

3 (83) Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

3 (93) Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson

4 (116) Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

5 (156) Shaun Prater, DB, Iowa

5 (166) Marvin Jones, WR, California

5 (167) George Iloka, DB, Boise State

6 (191) Dan Herron, RB, Ohio State

Cleveland Browns

1 (3) Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

1 (22) Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State

2 (37) Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California

3 (87) John Hughes, DB, Cincinnati

4 (100) Travis Benjamin, WR, Miami

4 (120) James-Michael Johnson, LB, Nevada

5 (160) Ryan Miller, OT, Colorado

6 (204)-x Emmanuel Acho, LB, Texas

6 (205)-x Billy Winn, DT, Boise St

7 (245)-x Trevin Wade, DB, Arizona

7 (247)-x Brad Smelley, RB, Alabama

Dallas Cowboys

1 (6), Morris Claiborne, DB, LSU

3 (81) Tyrone Crawford, DE, Boise State

4 (113) Kyle Wilber, DE, Wake Forest

4 (135)-x Matt Johnson, DB, E. Washington

5 (152) Danny Coale, WR, Virginia Tech

6 (186) James Hanna, TE, Oklahoma

7 (222) Caleb McSurdy, LB, Montana

Denver Broncos

2 (36) Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati

2 (57) Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State

3 (67) Ronnie Hillman, RB, San Diego State

4 (101) Omar Bolden, DB, Arizona State

4 (108) Philip Blake, C, Baylor

5 (137) Malik Jackson, DE, Tennessee

6 (188) Danny Trevathan, LB, Kentucky

Detroit Lions

1 (23) Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

2 (54) Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma

3 (85) Dwight Bentley, DB, La.-Lafayette

4 (125) Ronnell Lewis, DE, Oklahoma

5 (138) Tahir Whitehead, LB, Temple

5 (148) Chris Greenwood, DB, Albion

6 (196) Jonte Green, DB, New Mexico State

7 (223) Travis Lewis, LB, Oklahoma

Green Bay Packers

1 (28) Nick Perry, LB, Southern Cal

2 (51) Jerel Worthy, DE, Michigan State

2 (62) Casey Hayward, DB, Vanderbilt

4 (132)-x Mike Daniels, DE, Iowa

4 (133)-x Jerron McMillian, DB, Maine

5 (163) Terrell Manning, LB, N.C. State

7 (241)-x Andrew Datko, OT, Florida State

7 (243)-x B.J. Coleman, QB, Chattanooga

Houston Texans

1 (26) Whitney Mercilus, LB, Illinois

3 (76) Brandon Brooks, G, Miami (Ohio)

3 (68) DeVier Posey, WR, Ohio State

4 (99) Ben Jones, C, Georgia

4 (121) Keshawn Martin, WR, Michigan State

4 (126) Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska

5 (161) Randy Bullock, K, Texas A&M

6 (195) Nick Mondek, OT, Purdue

Indianapolis Colts

1 (1) Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

2 (34) Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

3 (64) Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

3 (92) T.Y. Hilton, WR, FIU

5 (136) Josh Chapman, DT, Alabama

5 (170)-x Vick Ballard, RB, Mississippi State

6 (206)-x Lavon Brazill, WR, Ohio

7 (208) Justin Anderson, G, Georgia

7 (214) Tim Fugger, LB, Vanderbilt

7 (253)-x Chandler Harnish, QB, N. Illinois

Jacksonville Jaguars

1 (5) Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

2 (38) Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

3 (70) Bryan Anger, P, California

5 (142) Brandon Marshall, LB, Nevada

6 (176) Mike Harris, DB, Florida State

7 (228) Jeris Pendleton, DT, Ashland

Kansas City Chiefs

1 (11) Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

2 (44) Jeff Allen, G, Illinois

3 (74) Donald Stephenson, OT, Oklahoma

4 (107) Devon Wylie, WR, Fresno State

5 (146) DeQuan Menzie, DB, Alabama

6 (182) Cyrus Gray, RB, Texas A&M

7 (218) Jerome Long, DT, San Diego State

7 (238) Junior Hemingway, WR, Michigan

Miami Dolphins

1 (8) Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

2 (42) Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

3 (72) Olivier Vernon, DE, Miami

3 (78) Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri

4 (97) Lamar Miller, RB, Miami

5 (155) Josh Kaddu, LB, Oregon

6 (183) B.J. Cunningham, WR, Michigan State

7 (215) Kheeston Randall, DT, Texas

7 (227) Rishard Matthews, WR, Nevada

Minnesota Vikings

1 (4) Matt Kalil, OT, Southern Cal

1 (29) Harrison Smith, DB, Notre Dame

3 (66) Josh Robinson, DB, UCF

4 (118) Jarius Wright, WR, Arkansas

4 (128)-x Rhett Ellison, TE, Southern Cal

4 (134)-x Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas

5 (139) Robert Blanton, DB, Notre Dame

6 (175) Blair Walsh, K, Georgia

7 (210) Audie Cole, LB, N.C. State

7 (219) Trevor Guyton, DT, California

New England Patriots

1 (21) Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse

1 (25) Dont'a Hightower, LB, Alabama

2 (48) Tavon Wilson, DB, Illinois

3 (90) Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas

6 (197) Nate Ebner, DB, Ohio State

7 (224) Alfonzo Dennard, DB, Nebraska

7 (235) Jeremy Ebert, WR, Northwestern

New Orleans Saints

3 (89) Akiem Hicks, DT, Regina (Canada)

4 (122) Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

5 (162) Corey White, DB, Samford

6 (179) Andrew Tiller, G, Syracuse

7 (234) Marcel Jones, OT, Nebraska

New York Giants

1 (32) David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech

2 (63) Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

3 (94) Jayron Hosley, DB, Virginia Tech

4 (127) Andrien Robinson, TE, Cincinnati

4 (131)-x Brandon Mosley, OT, Auburn

6 (201) Matt McCants, OT, UAB

7 (239) Markus Kuhn, DT, N.C. State

New York Jets

1 (16) Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

2 (43) Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

3 (77) DeMario Davis, LB, Arkansas State

6 (187) Josh Bush, DB, Wake Forest

6 (202)-x Terrance Ganaway, RB, Baylor

6 (203)-x Robert Griffin, G, Baylor

7 (242)-x Antonio Allen, DB, South Carolina

7 (244)-x Jordan White, WR, WMichigan

Oakland Raiders

3 (95)-x Tony Bergstrom, G, Utah

4 (129)-x Miles Burris, LB, San Diego State

5 (158) Jack Crawford, DE, Penn State

5 (168)-x Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

6 (189) Christo Bilukidi, DT, Georgia State

7 (230) Nate Stupar, LB, Penn State

Philadelphia Eagles

1 (12) Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

2 (46) Mychal Kendricks, LB, California

2 (59) Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

3 (88) Nick Foles, QB, Arizona

4 (123) Brandon Boykin, DB, Georgia

5 (153) Dennis Kelly, OT, Purdue

6 (194) Marvin McNutt, WR, Iowa

6 (200) Brandon Washington, G, Miami

7 (229) Bryce Brown, RB, Kansas State

Pittsburgh Steelers

1 (24) David DeCastro, G, Stanford

2 (56) Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

3 (86) Sean Spence, LB, Miami

4 (109) Alameda Ta'amu, DT, Washington

5 (159) Chris Rainey, RB, Florida

7 (231) Tony Clemons, WR, Colorado

7 (240)-x David Paulson, TE, Oregon

7 (246)-x Terrence Frederick, DB, Texas A&M

7 (248)-x Kelvin Beachum, OT, SMU

St. Louis Rams

1 (14) Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

2 (33) Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State

2 (39) Janoris Jenkins, DB, North Alabama

2 (50) Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati

3 (65) Trumaine Johnson, DB, Montana

4 (96) Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest

5 (150) Rokevious Watkins, G, South Carolina

6 (171) Greg Zuerlein, K, Missouri Western

7 (209) Aaron Brown, LB, Hawaii

7 (252)-x Daryl Richardson, RB, Abilene Christian

San Diego Chargers

1 (18) Melvin Ingram, LB, South Carolina

2 (49) Kendall Reyes, DE, Connecticut

3 (73) Brandon Taylor, DB, LSU

4 (110) Ladarius Green, TE, Louisiana-Lafayette

5 (149) Johnnie Troutman, G, Penn State

7 (226) David Molk, C, Michigan

7 (250)-x Edwin Baker, RB, Michigan State

San Francisco 49ers

1 (30) A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois

2 (61) LaMichael James, RB, Oregon

4 (117) Joe Looney, G, Wake Forest

5 (165) Darius Fleming, LB, Notre Dame

6 (180) Trenton Robinson, DB, Michigan State

6 (199) Jason Slowey, OT, Western Oregon

7 (237) Cam Johnson, LB, Virginia

Seattle Seahawks

1 (15) Bruce Irvin, DE, West Virginia

2 (47) Bobby Wagner, LB, Utah State

3 (75) Russell Wilson, QB, Wisconsin

4 (106) Robert Turbin, RB, Utah State

4 (114) Jaye Howard, DT, Florida

5 (154) Korey Toomer, LB, Idaho

6 (172) Jeremy Lane, DB, Northwestern State

6 (181) Winston Guy, DB, Kentucky

7 (225) J.R. Sweezy, OT, N.C. State

7 (232) Greg Scruggs, DE, Louisville

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

1 (7) Mark Barron, DB, Alabama

1 (31) Doug Martin, RB, Boise State

2 (58) Lavonte David, LB, Nebraska

5 (140) Najee Goode, LB, West Virginia

6 (174) Keith Tandy, DB, West Virginia

7 (212) Michael Smith, RB, Utah State

7 (233) Drake Dunsmore, TE, Northwestern

Tennessee Titans

1 (20) Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

2 (52) Zach Brown, LB, North Carolina

3 (82) Mike Martin, DT, Michigan

4 (115) Coty Sensabaugh, DB, Clemson

5 (145) Taylor Thompson, TE, SMU

6 (190) Markelle Martin, DB, Oklahoma State

7 (211) Scott Solomon, DE, Rice

Washington Redskins

1 (2) Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

3 (71) Josh LeRibeus, G, SMU

4 (102) Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State

4 (119) Keenan Robinson, LB, Texas

5 (141) Adam Gettis, G, Iowa

6 (173) Alfred Morris, RB, Florida Atlantic

6 (193) Tom Compton, OT, South Dakota

7 (213) Richard Crawford, DB, SMU

7 (217) Jordan Bernstine, DB, Iowa

x-compensatory selection

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

INDIANAPOLIS — The Magic entered Indiana's building as underdogs and walked out talking trash.

Jason Richardson and Jameer Nelson scored 17 apiece to help sixth-seeded Orlando, playing without star center Dwight Howard, surprise the third-seeded Pacers 81-77 in Game 1 of the first-round Eastern Conference playoff series on Saturday night.

"Y'all look real stunned," Glen Davis, Howard's replacement, yelled at the crowd as he left.

Howard, the Magic's leading scorer and the league's top rebounder, will miss the rest of the season after having back surgery. The Magic overcame a seven-point deficit by holding the Pacers scoreless for the final 4:05.

"We're all we got," said Davis, who scored 16 with 13 rebounds. "… When we believe, there's unlimited things that we can do."

Orlando hit nine 3-pointers, led by Richardson's five.

"With Dwight being out, the 3-point line is what we had to take care of, and we didn't," Pacers guard Paul George said.

ORLANDO (81): Turkoglu 3-10 2-2 9, Anderson 2-7 0-0 5, Davis 8-20 0-0 16, Nelson 7-15 2-2 17, J.Richardson 6-15 0-0 17, Redick 2-4 2-3 6, Clark 2-6 2-4 6, Q.Richardson 2-4 0-0 5, Duhon 0-0 0-0 0, Orton 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 32-81 8-11 81.

INDIANA (77): Granger 7-20 1-4 17, West 8-14 3-3 19, Hibbert 3-11 2-4 8, Hill 2-7 6-7 11, George 4-11 0-0 8, Barbosa 1-4 0-2 3, Hansbrough 3-9 1-2 7, Amundson 1-4 0-0 2, Collison 1-7 0-0 2. Totals 30-87 13-22 77.

Orlando 21 30 13 17— 81

Indiana 22 22 19 14— 77

3-Point Goals—Orlando 9-24 (J.Richardson 5-8, Turkoglu 1-2, Q.Richardson 1-3, Anderson 1-4, Nelson 1-5, Redick 0-2), Indiana 4-13 (Granger 2-4, Barbosa 1-1, Hill 1-3, Collison 0-1, George 0-4). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Orlando 52 (Davis 13), Indiana 66 (Hibbert 13). Assists—Orlando 18 (Nelson 9), Indiana 17 (Collison 5). Total Fouls—Orlando 17, Indiana 17. A—18,165.

Heat thumps Knicks

MIAMI — LeBron James scored 32 after shooting 10-for-14 from the field, and the Heat rode the strength of what became a 32-2 run to easily beat the Knicks 100-67 in their East quarterfinal.

Dwyane Wade added 19 points in his first game back after dislocating his left index finger.

"Our guys had a noticeable look in their eyes the last 24 hours," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "We wanted to get back to the basics and play to our identity."

No, this wasn't redemption for falling short in the NBA Finals last season, but it was a fine start.

"I've waited to get back to the postseason, prepared myself all season, throughout the offseason to get back to this point," James said after Miami turned 27 New York turnovers into a franchise playoff-record 38 points.

New York's 67 points matched a franchise playoff low.

The Knicks lost Iman Shumpert for the rest of the postseason after he tore a ligament in his knee, and Carmelo Anthony missed 12 of 15 shots and finished with just 11 points.

NEW YORK (67): C.Anthony 3-15 5-5 11, Stoudemire 2-7 5-6 9, Chandler 0-3 0-0 0, Davis 4-6 0-0 10, Shumpert 0-2 0-0 0, Jeffries 0-1 0-0 0, Smith 7-17 0-0 17, Fields 4-7 0-0 8, Novak 2-2 0-0 6, Bibby 0-4 0-0 0, Harrellson 2-4 0-0 4, Jordan 1-2 0-0 2. Totals 25-70 10-11 67.

MIAMI (100): James 10-14 11-14 32, Haslem 1-3 1-2 3, Bosh 3-7 3-4 9, Chalmers 3-5 4-5 11, Wade 8-13 3-6 19, Miller 3-10 0-0 9, Battier 2-8 2-2 8, J.Anthony 0-0 0-0 0, Cole 1-3 0-0 2, Jones 3-4 0-0 7, Turiaf 0-1 0-0 0, Howard 0-2 0-0 0. Totals 34-70 24-33 100.

New York 18 13 16 20— 67

Miami 24 30 27 19— 100

3-Point Goals—N.Y. 7-21 (Smith 3-8, Novak 2-2, Davis 2-4, Shumpert 0-1, Harrellson 0-1, C.Anthony 0-2, Bibby 0-3), Miami 8-21 (Miller 3-9, Battier 2-6, James 1-1, Jones 1-2, Chalmers 1-3). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—N.Y. 45 (C.Anthony 10), Miami 46 (Haslem 8). Assists—N.Y. 11 (C.Anthony 3), Miami 16 (Chalmers 9). Total Fouls—N.Y. 26, Miami 17. Technicals—C.Anthony, Stoudemire, N.Y. Coach Woodson, Haslem, Miami defensive three second. Flagrant Fouls—Chandler. A—19,621.

By Bob Putnam, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, April 28, 2012

JACKSONVILLE — Lakewood's Shaquem Griffin left the runway much like he has done in every other triple jump performance this season: with an aura of invincibility.

Griffin, who entered Saturday's Class 2A state track meet with the top mark in his signature event, left the rest of his competitors behind after clearing 48 feet, 4½ inches in his second jump in the finals.

It was more than enough for Griffin to win his first state title.

"I finished fifth last year, and I told myself afterward that I was coming here this time to take gold," Griffin said.

Griffin's toughest competition this season came from his twin brother, Shaquill. The two were the only participants in the event who cleared more than 47 feet in last week's region meet.

"I have competition from my brother in everything, from the classroom to sports," Shaquem said. "The night before we were talking in our hotel room and he said he was coming after me and going to win the triple jump. I told him he can try, but I didn't see that happening."

Shaquem started off by going 47-6 in the preliminaries, a mark good enough that he was able to scratch the rest of his jumps and wait for the finals.

Then, Shaquem zeroed in on his goal of breaking his personal and school record of 48-1, which he set last week.

He conquered that, too. His brother finished fourth in 46-11¼.

"It feels great," Shaquem said. "I accomplished everything I wanted."

The Griffins weren't finished. In the 4x400 relay, they teamed with Raymon Cleveland and Tim Holmes to win in 3 minutes, 20.60 seconds, one-hundredth of a second ahead of Pahokee.

At the start of the race, American Heritage held a commanding lead but fell behind after a dropped baton on the third exchange. That gave others hope, including the Spartans. Shaquill and Shaquem helped close the gap. Holmes, running the anchor leg, finished it off by leaning ahead of Pahokee's Jean Deceus just in time for the win.

Holmes also took sixth in the 300 hurdles (39.46) and teamed with Tahrell Jones, Shai Brown and Devontae Persha on the 4x800 relay that finished fourth in 8:01.83.

Persha was sixth in the 800 (1:57.41) and Javaris Little was seventh in the 100 (11.07).

They helped the Spartans finish fifth overall among the boys with 28 points. Plantation's American Heritage won with 45 points.

On the girls side, Lakewood's Sharell Keys was eighth in the 100 (12.55) and teamed with Erika Allen, Kajira Davis and Zayven Reese to take fifth in the 4x100 relay (48.33).

And the Spartans' Ashlee Funderburk was eighth in the 300 hurdles (46.08).

But the girls meet belonged to Miami Jackson's Robin Reynolds, who broke the state record in the long jump with a leap of 20-6¼, which also is the best outdoor mark in the nation this season. Reynolds also won the 100 (11.88) and 400 (52.59) to finish her career with 14 state titles in individual events, breaking the record of 13 set by North Palm Benjamin's Julian Reynolds (no relation) from 1990-95.

By Bryan Burns, Times Correspondent
Saturday, April 28, 2012

ST. PETERSBURG — As a child, Matt Clare had a front-row vantage point for the Rowdies' grudge matches with the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, cheering his father, John, a Strikers defender during the rivalry's heyday.

On Saturday, the younger Clare, now a Rowdies forward, added his name to Rowdies-Strikers lore and helped to continue Tampa Bay's recent mastery of the Strikers in league play.

Clare, who lived in Fort Lauderdale before moving when he was 10, scored the first goal against the Strikers. When the game was over, a spirited crowd of 3,536 at Al Lang Field had watched the Rowdies put three in the back of the net in a 3-1 win.

"To put multiple goals against a good back four like that is very good," Clare said. "It's going to build a lot of confidence."

Since returning in 2010, the Rowdies are 5-0-4 in league matches against the Strikers.

Clare's goal came in the 27th minute on a cross from Keith Savage. The midfielder sent a pass from the right edge of the box onto the back post, where Clare put a shot past goalkeeper Matt Glaeser (five saves).

"I saw the defender start to squeeze in a little bit because the ball was on the far side," Clare said. "So I made my run, I checked in, and I just pulled out behind him. Keith played a great ball."

The Rowdies (2-1-2) withstood an early second-half push by the Strikers and went ahead 2-0 after Luke Mulholland was pulled down in the penalty box. Mike Ambersley took the resulting penalty kick in the 62nd minute and scored his first goal of the season after leading Tampa Bay with 11 a year ago.

"Mike's a quality player; we're glad that he's got that first one," coach Ricky Hill said. "We're hoping that's going to kick start him to get more and more."

The Strikers got a goal back in the 90th minute when Walter Restrepo was unmarked in front of goalkeeper Jeff Attinella (six saves) and headed a pass into the net.

Savage added an insurance score in stoppage time on the final play, one-timing a pass from Ambersley into an open goal after Ambersley had gotten behind the Strikers defense and maneuvered around Glaeser.

"It was kind of frantic there for a minute the way it has been," Savage said, "but to put it away, even if it was the last few seconds, was a relief."

Times wires
Saturday, April 28, 2012

CHICAGO — Jon Lester outdueled Jake Peavy on Saturday, lifting the Red Sox to a 1-0 win over the White Sox for their sixth straight win.

Lester, who had allowed 12 runs over his previous two starts, ended a career-worst streak of losing five straight decisions and going eight starts without a win dating to Sept. 11 of last season. He gave up five hits and one walk, striking out seven.

"Sometime, either yesterday or today, (Lester) asked what he had to do," Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine said. "I told him to pitch like an ace. Tonight, he pitched like an ace."

The Red Sox, who started the season by losing five of their first six, evened their record at 10-10.

"Any win is satisfying, but those games are fun," Lester said. "It's just a battle. I've been on the other end of those. You feel like you do everything you can to put your team in position to win, and the other guy just does a little bit more."

Peavy failed in his bid to win a fourth straight start for the first time with the White Sox but threw a complete game for a second straight start for the first time in his career.

Peavy hasn't had more than one complete game in a season since 2006, when he was with San Diego.

Peavy shut down Oakland on Monday in his last start, a 4-0 win in which he faced four batters over the minimum. Saturday, he lowered his ERA to 1.72, limiting Boston to four hits, and striking out six while retiring the last 12 batters he faced.

"I'm giving you all I got," Peavy said. "That's a great team across the way, as you see. When Jon Lester puts it all together, he's mighty tough. I wish I could have done a little more to keep that run off the board and give us a chance."

Ryan Sweeney hit a bloop double leading off the fourth, the ball falling in after White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham made a diving attempt for it near the rightfield line. One batter later, Adrian Gonzalez lined a single up the middle to score Sweeney.

The run ended Peavy's run of 17 scoreless innings.

"(A .500 record) is not a goal, but we rebounded off the bottom," Valentine said. "I think we still have a lot of work to do."

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, April 28, 2012

TAMPA — The Bucs entered the draft with linebacker considered to be among their weaknesses.

But they emerged from the three-day affair having fortified the position with starting-caliber Lavonte David and, on Saturday, fifth-round pick Najee Goode.

The Bucs selected Goode, a versatile West Virginia linebacker, 140th overall, giving them a candidate to add some much-needed depth at the position.

Adding Goode also gives the Bucs a player who has proven he can overcome long odds.

He went from walk-on at a formidable program like West Virginia to become a team captain for the Mountaineers and first-team All-Big East selection to NFL draft pick.

"It was just a long shot," Goode said. "I was hoping and praying for it, and I just kept working hard. You know, now that's it's here I still can't believe it. But when I first walked on, I was just trying to get to the next level, and for me, that next level was just getting a scholarship and playing hard."

While David has the inside track to start at one of the outside linebacker positions, with Mason Foster (middle) and Quincy Black more than likely manning the remaining two, Goode gives the Bucs a wild-card sort of linebacker who has experience both inside and outside.

As a senior, Goode literally did it all, starting four games at middle linebacker, four at strongside and five at weakside in West Virginia's complex defensive scheme. The Bucs think that will make him better prepared to contribute on the pro level.

"They kind of play a different defense and he would move around and play at all those different spots, which shows his versatility for sure," coach Greg Schiano said.

There has been no decision on what position Goode will play in Tampa Bay, but the Bucs seem to think his role could resemble the one he had for the Mountaineers.

"He's a guy we think can play all three positions," general manager Mark Dominik said. "He's physical, fast. … He's going to have an opportunity to play all three (positions) and compete."

By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, April 28, 2012

ARLINGTON, Texas — LHP David Price has accomplished a lot in his young career, including two All-Star selections and a second-place finish in the AL Cy Young Award voting.

But one thing Price hasn't done is beat the Rangers, against whom he is 0-6 with a 5.30 ERA in 10 starts entering tonight. They are the only American League team Price has faced but not defeated.

On July 4, 2009, in Arlington, he walked five and allowed six runs in 11/3 innings of a 12-4 loss.

"It's something I've thought about," Price said. "I remember pitching here 2009, July 4. It was probably my worst start in my career — ever. Once you get through this lineup and beat these guys for that first time, it kind of gets that piano off your back."

Price is coming in with a lot of confidence stemming from Tuesday's five-hit shutout of the Angels. He hopes to do more of the same against Texas — getting ahead in the count, recording quick outs and having command of his offspeed pitches.

"Whenever you're facing the Rangers, you've got to be confident," Price said. "I feel like right now they have the best lineup in baseball. It's a tough task whenever you're facing these guys. But it's also fun."

WADING IN: Manager Joe Maddon continued Saturday to rave about RHP Wade Davis' performance in Friday's 8-4 win against the Rangers, when he got out of two bases-loaded situations in preserving a four-run lead.

"Spectacular is an understatement," Maddon said. "What he did under the circumstances — almost 50,000 people in your face, a real good lineup — I was really impressed."

Davis, who was moved to the bullpen after losing the spring battle to be the fifth starter, said he is getting more comfortable as a reliever but isn't "100 percent yet."

"I'm able to be relaxed on the mound when I get out there," Davis said. "In between times, it's the more mental prep and physical prep … I'm going to have to get used to. But as far as getting into the game and getting relaxed, it's been a pretty easy adjustment."

Davis said the toughest challenge is getting ready quickly. It still takes him 20 to 30 pitches to get warm and loose. He said his pitches aren't different in relief, though Maddon said he is seeing a higher velocity.

Davis said the best advice he has received from the other relievers is to stay positive. "I'm sure one day you're going to go out and things aren't going to go right," Davis said. "You've just got to keep staying positive because you've got so many opportunities to go out there and rebound."

MEGAMONTH: RHP James Shields' four wins are tied for the majors lead and ties a team record for April set by RHP Matt Garza (2010) and RHP Andy Sonnanstine (2008).

LINING UP: Maddon said CF B.J. Upton had a planned day off Saturday, plus he wanted to get 1B/OF Brandon Allen a start to keep him fresh for pinch-hitting duties. Allen's start, his first for the Rays, came in leftfield and with his parents and sister in the stands. … SS Elliot Johnson made consecutive starts for the first time this season.

LOOKING BACK: Maddon said he had no problem with Upton trying to advance to third on a flyout to left with two outs in the first Friday. Maddon said Upton saw David Murphy drifting back on the ball and catch it awkwardly. "I really never complain about our guys being aggressive. I think he read it right, and I think that Murphy just made a great play."

MINOR MATTERS: C Nevin Ashley broke his right hand on a foul tip during Triple-A Durham's loss to Indianapolis on Friday. … SS Reid Brignac is 3-for-20 in five games for Durham.