Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Happy For an Off-Day?
That's an unequivocal yes! Monday was a welcome respite from the Tribe. Sure, arguably our best pitcher in the young season in Jake Westbrook went on the DL but at least, we didn't have to watch the team bat. Five runs over the weekend in Minnesota equaled another lost series to the mediocre Twins. Coming into Tuesday night's game against the Royals, the team was hitting a paltry .235. Slumps like 2 for his last 21 (Travis Hafner) and 3 for his last 30 (Jhonny Peralta) were sprinkled throughout the lineup. The corner outfield spots were hitting a squalid .210, with three home runs. Westbrook's injury proved bittersweet for Indians fans as many were pleased to see OF prospect Ben Francisco called up to replace Westbrook.
Tuesday night proved therapeutic for Cleveland fans. How good was Tuesday game against Kansas City for the Indians offense? Three hitters raised their averages above the Mendoza line. Casey Blake of all people went 4-4, knocking in six runs. And best of all, C.C. Sabathia, who had been hammered in his four starts in 2008, struck out 11 Royals in six shutout innings. Sure, it wasn't perfect. The big lefty threw too many pitches and Jorge Julio is still a disaster waiting to happen in the bullpen. But for one night, things seemed alright for the Tribe.
It only takes a night like Tuesday before my head is running through scenarios. Suddenly, Carmona and Cliff Lee pitching the next two games means a possible sweep, with the Yankees coming to Cleveland Friday for their only visit in 2008. So we should be back to .500 by ohh I don't know, Saturday. Or this game could just be a tease and the bats will disappear Wednesday against Brian Bannister who sports a 2.42 ERA in the young season.
Labels: Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals
# posted by Nate @ 10:36 PM 
