7 - 29 - 10 vs. New York Yankees L, 11 - 4 42 - 60
The fact that Andy Marte was the Indians' most effective pitcher in the series finale with New York, tells you all you need to know about the perfomance of the Tribe staff. Marte, who usually plays third base, pitched as an emergency reliever in the 9th, and his 1 - 2 - 3 inning made him the only Cleveland hurler in the game to not walk a batter. The Yanks were issued a dozen free passes and they turned all those opportunites into a rout.
Austin Kearns did put the Indians on top in the 1st thanks to his sacrifice fly, but after starter Mitch Talbot had to leave in the 3rd due to back stiffness, the Tribe fell apart.
Derek Jeter's clutch two - out, RBI single to center broke up a 1 - 1 tie in the 6th, and one frame later, the roof completely caved in on the heavily taxed Cleveland bullpen.
After the pen picked up two quick outs in the 7th, they proceeded to allow seven runs. Robinson Cano's solo home run kick - started the rally, and four base on balls kept it going.
The Indians were able to post three tallies in the bottom of the 9th, and if Luis Valbuena's drive to right - center field would have hit the track, things could have gotten very interesting. However, Nick Swisher made a fine running catch to take away what would have been a two - run double, and the ballgame was over.
Prior to the game, Jhonny Peralta was traded to the Detroit Tigers for a minor league pitcher by the name of Giovany Soto.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Yanks Embarass the Tribe
7 - 28 - 10 vs. New York Yankees L, 8 - 0 42 - 59
In order to beat the Yankees, a team has to play virtually perfect baseball. Their starter must be on top of his game, and the offense has to produce some runs to outscore New York's potent line - up. Unfortunately, for the Indians, they were far from perfect in this one as their starter, Fausto Carmona got knocked around for seven runs in just 2 2/3 innings, and their offense failed to even put one tally on the scoreboard.
The only bad new for the Yanks was that Alex Rodriguez once again failed to hit his 600th career home run. He did, however, contribute a single, a double, and a run batted in.
Because the Yankees scored eight times in the first four frames, this game was over before a lot of the fans had settled into their seats. The Bronx Bombers tallied once in the 1st, thrice in both the 2nd and 3rd, and once more in the 4th.
The Tribe had a few chances to score, but all of those were thwarted by A.J. Burnett, who tossed scoreless baseball for 6 1/3.
In order to beat the Yankees, a team has to play virtually perfect baseball. Their starter must be on top of his game, and the offense has to produce some runs to outscore New York's potent line - up. Unfortunately, for the Indians, they were far from perfect in this one as their starter, Fausto Carmona got knocked around for seven runs in just 2 2/3 innings, and their offense failed to even put one tally on the scoreboard.
The only bad new for the Yanks was that Alex Rodriguez once again failed to hit his 600th career home run. He did, however, contribute a single, a double, and a run batted in.
Because the Yankees scored eight times in the first four frames, this game was over before a lot of the fans had settled into their seats. The Bronx Bombers tallied once in the 1st, thrice in both the 2nd and 3rd, and once more in the 4th.
The Tribe had a few chances to score, but all of those were thwarted by A.J. Burnett, who tossed scoreless baseball for 6 1/3.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe on the Right Side of Dramatic Finish
7 - 27 - 10 vs. New York Yankees W, 4 - 1 42 - 58
It was, quite simply, baseball at its finest. Two outs. 9th inning. Alex Rodriguez at the plate representing the tying run and also attempting to hit his 600th career homer. It appeared as if the baseball gods had aligned fate just right so that A - Rod's milestone long ball would be a clutch one. Then, a funny thing happened on the way to a story book finish. Chris Perez threw a nasty slider, Rodriguez grounded out to the shortstop, and the Indians were victorious.
Prior to Perez's heroics, it was Josh Tomlin who had stolen the show. Making his major league debut, Tomlin dazzled the Yankees through seven frames as he only allowed one run. The outing was good enough to earn him the win against former Indian, C.C. Sabathia.
Cleveland took what proved to be an insurmountable 4 - 0 lead into the 7th, and it came without the use of any real big hits. New York committed two costly errors that led to two unearned runs, and the only RBI hit that the Tribe picked up was a double off the bat of Matt LaPorta in the 6th.
Those four tallies would stand up thanks to Chris Perez and his great pitching against one the best hitters in the game.
It was, quite simply, baseball at its finest. Two outs. 9th inning. Alex Rodriguez at the plate representing the tying run and also attempting to hit his 600th career homer. It appeared as if the baseball gods had aligned fate just right so that A - Rod's milestone long ball would be a clutch one. Then, a funny thing happened on the way to a story book finish. Chris Perez threw a nasty slider, Rodriguez grounded out to the shortstop, and the Indians were victorious.
Prior to Perez's heroics, it was Josh Tomlin who had stolen the show. Making his major league debut, Tomlin dazzled the Yankees through seven frames as he only allowed one run. The outing was good enough to earn him the win against former Indian, C.C. Sabathia.
Cleveland took what proved to be an insurmountable 4 - 0 lead into the 7th, and it came without the use of any real big hits. New York committed two costly errors that led to two unearned runs, and the only RBI hit that the Tribe picked up was a double off the bat of Matt LaPorta in the 6th.
Those four tallies would stand up thanks to Chris Perez and his great pitching against one the best hitters in the game.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Yanks Rally Late For the Win
7 - 26 - 10 vs. New York Yankees L, 3 - 2 41 - 58
With one swing of the bat, Curtis Granderson ruined what could have been Jake Westbrook's best outing of the season. He was pitching into the 8th inning and he had a 2 - 1 lead, but that's when Granderson unloaded a long, two - run homer into the right field bleachers. And, in the blink of an eye, Westbrook went from a pitcher on the verge of beating the vaunted Yankees to just another one of their many victims.
Travis Hafner put the Indians on top in the 2nd on his solo home run to right. The long ball was Hafner's first since June 15th, and that ironically came against another New York team, the Mets.
Westbrook had a perfect game going until Nick Swisher blasted a solo shot to right in the 4th that tied the game at one.
The Tribe regained the lead thanks to Shin - Soo Choo and his two - out, RBI double in the 6th that scored Michael Brantley, who had reached on a fielder's choice two batters prior to Choo.
However, Granderson's gopher ball soon followed and Mariano Rivera would not allow the Indians to make a late comeback.
With one swing of the bat, Curtis Granderson ruined what could have been Jake Westbrook's best outing of the season. He was pitching into the 8th inning and he had a 2 - 1 lead, but that's when Granderson unloaded a long, two - run homer into the right field bleachers. And, in the blink of an eye, Westbrook went from a pitcher on the verge of beating the vaunted Yankees to just another one of their many victims.
Travis Hafner put the Indians on top in the 2nd on his solo home run to right. The long ball was Hafner's first since June 15th, and that ironically came against another New York team, the Mets.
Westbrook had a perfect game going until Nick Swisher blasted a solo shot to right in the 4th that tied the game at one.
The Tribe regained the lead thanks to Shin - Soo Choo and his two - out, RBI double in the 6th that scored Michael Brantley, who had reached on a fielder's choice two batters prior to Choo.
However, Granderson's gopher ball soon followed and Mariano Rivera would not allow the Indians to make a late comeback.
Cleveland Indians: Another Home Run Turns the Tide for Tampa
7 - 25 - 10 vs. Tampa Bay L, 4 - 2 41 - 57
For the second day in a row, the Rays turned an early deficit into a close victory, and once again, the momentum turned on a three - run homer off the bat of a middle infielder. Following in the footsteps of Jason Bartlett, Reid Brignac lofted a three - run shot just over the right field wall in the 2nd inning to provide the big blow that wrapped up a series victory for Tampa Bay.
The Indians grabbed that early lead thanks to a Carlos Santana sacrifice fly that came on the heels of a lead - off walk that was drawn by Michael Brantley.
Then came Brignac's big fly that came with two outs, and it resulted in the Tribe having to play catch - up for the remainder of the afternoon.
After the two teams traded tallies, Cleveland had several opportunites to tie or take the lead late in the game. In the 7th, an infield shift cost Santana a game - tying, two - run single; Shelley Duncan flew out to right in the 8th when a base hit would have deadlocked the score; and Santana just missed a two - run homer in the 9th that would have forced extra innings.
In the end, the Rays were a winner behind Wade Davis and the bullpen, while Justin Masterson suffered the loss.
For the second day in a row, the Rays turned an early deficit into a close victory, and once again, the momentum turned on a three - run homer off the bat of a middle infielder. Following in the footsteps of Jason Bartlett, Reid Brignac lofted a three - run shot just over the right field wall in the 2nd inning to provide the big blow that wrapped up a series victory for Tampa Bay.
The Indians grabbed that early lead thanks to a Carlos Santana sacrifice fly that came on the heels of a lead - off walk that was drawn by Michael Brantley.
Then came Brignac's big fly that came with two outs, and it resulted in the Tribe having to play catch - up for the remainder of the afternoon.
After the two teams traded tallies, Cleveland had several opportunites to tie or take the lead late in the game. In the 7th, an infield shift cost Santana a game - tying, two - run single; Shelley Duncan flew out to right in the 8th when a base hit would have deadlocked the score; and Santana just missed a two - run homer in the 9th that would have forced extra innings.
In the end, the Rays were a winner behind Wade Davis and the bullpen, while Justin Masterson suffered the loss.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Rays Ruin Talbot's Promising Outing
7 - 24 - 10 vs. Tampa Bay L, 6 - 3 41 - 56
Mitch Talbot had already struck out seven batters, including six in a row, and he was pitching a two - hit shutout in the 5th inning. Then, the wheels came off, and Talbot wound up getting tagged with five earned runs, and he couldn't even finish the 6th. Just like that, Talbot was the losing pitcher, and the Rays' 18 - game losing streak in Cleveland was over.
The Indians' jumped out to a surprising 3 - 0 lead off of David Price, who is one of the best pitchers in all of baseball. The walks issued by Price were the primary culprit as Trevor Crowe was issued a free pass to begin the game and he scored on Shin - Soo Choo's double, and in the 2nd, Matt LaPorta walked and came home when Shelley Duncan unloaded a homer to left field.
Tampa Bay quickly came back and tied the game in the 5th thanks to a couple of seeing - eye singles and a three - run homer off the bat of Jason Bartlett that had to be reviewed before it was declared a long ball.
Carlos Pena's solo shot in the 6th was the knockout punch, and the Rays went on to add a few more runs to insure that their ace got the win.
Mitch Talbot had already struck out seven batters, including six in a row, and he was pitching a two - hit shutout in the 5th inning. Then, the wheels came off, and Talbot wound up getting tagged with five earned runs, and he couldn't even finish the 6th. Just like that, Talbot was the losing pitcher, and the Rays' 18 - game losing streak in Cleveland was over.
The Indians' jumped out to a surprising 3 - 0 lead off of David Price, who is one of the best pitchers in all of baseball. The walks issued by Price were the primary culprit as Trevor Crowe was issued a free pass to begin the game and he scored on Shin - Soo Choo's double, and in the 2nd, Matt LaPorta walked and came home when Shelley Duncan unloaded a homer to left field.
Tampa Bay quickly came back and tied the game in the 5th thanks to a couple of seeing - eye singles and a three - run homer off the bat of Jason Bartlett that had to be reviewed before it was declared a long ball.
Carlos Pena's solo shot in the 6th was the knockout punch, and the Rays went on to add a few more runs to insure that their ace got the win.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Carmona Tosses Gem Despite Rain
7 - 23 - 10 vs. Tampa Bay W, 3 - 1 (7 innings) 41 - 55
Fausto Carmona probably would have thrown a complete game, but he will settle for his 10th win of the season. Carmona was twirling a one - hit gem through five innings when the rains hit, costing him a chance at going any deeper into the game.
There were in fact two rain delays in this one, and by time the second one rolled around, the umpires and players were so tired that the game was called with the Indians on top.
The top of the Tribe's lineup, rejuvenated by the returns of Asdrubal Cabrera and Shin - Shoo Choo, was the engine that made Cleveland's offense go against the Rays. In the 1st, Michael Brantley walked, Cabrera singled, Choo hit a fly ball that moved Brantley to third, and Carlos Santana hit into a RBI fielder's choice.
Tampa Bay tied the game in the 2nd because the Indians forgot how to play defense. Carlos Pena reached on a throwing error by Jaosn Donald at second, and after a stolen base and another throwing error got him to third, John Jaso drove him in with a groundout.
The Tribe regained the lead in the 3rd much the same way they had done it back in the 1st. Choo plated a run by grounding out, following a Brantley single and a Cabrera double.
The first delay took place after the 5th, and once play resumed, Trevor Crowe added a little bit of insurance with his 6th inning solo shot into the right field bleachers.
The Rays managed just one hit in this game, a Reid Brignac infield single, as they lost for the 18th consecutive time in Cleveland.
Fausto Carmona probably would have thrown a complete game, but he will settle for his 10th win of the season. Carmona was twirling a one - hit gem through five innings when the rains hit, costing him a chance at going any deeper into the game.
There were in fact two rain delays in this one, and by time the second one rolled around, the umpires and players were so tired that the game was called with the Indians on top.
The top of the Tribe's lineup, rejuvenated by the returns of Asdrubal Cabrera and Shin - Shoo Choo, was the engine that made Cleveland's offense go against the Rays. In the 1st, Michael Brantley walked, Cabrera singled, Choo hit a fly ball that moved Brantley to third, and Carlos Santana hit into a RBI fielder's choice.
Tampa Bay tied the game in the 2nd because the Indians forgot how to play defense. Carlos Pena reached on a throwing error by Jaosn Donald at second, and after a stolen base and another throwing error got him to third, John Jaso drove him in with a groundout.
The Tribe regained the lead in the 3rd much the same way they had done it back in the 1st. Choo plated a run by grounding out, following a Brantley single and a Cabrera double.
The first delay took place after the 5th, and once play resumed, Trevor Crowe added a little bit of insurance with his 6th inning solo shot into the right field bleachers.
The Rays managed just one hit in this game, a Reid Brignac infield single, as they lost for the 18th consecutive time in Cleveland.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe's Winning Streak Runs Out of Gas
7 - 21 - 10 at Minnesota L, 6 - 0 40 - 55
Unfortunately for the Indians, all good things must come to an end, and that means the Tribe's six - game winning streak is a thing of the past. Francisco Liriano took care of that. His gem combined with an overabundance of offensive support, handed the Tribe their first defeat since July 11th.
The Twins took complete control of this game when they scored four times in the 4th. Delmon Young hit a RBI double, Michael Cuddyer contributed a RBI single, and J.J. Hardy broke the Indians' collective backs with his clutch, two - out, two - run double down the left field line. Once that inning had gone into the books, the game was pretty much over.
Cleveland had numerous scoring opportunities, but each and every time they threatened, Minnesota's defense turned in a huge rally - killing double play.
Liriano's seven shutout innings easily allowed him to outpitch Jake Westbrook, who was roughed up for four tallies in six frames.
Unfortunately for the Indians, all good things must come to an end, and that means the Tribe's six - game winning streak is a thing of the past. Francisco Liriano took care of that. His gem combined with an overabundance of offensive support, handed the Tribe their first defeat since July 11th.
The Twins took complete control of this game when they scored four times in the 4th. Delmon Young hit a RBI double, Michael Cuddyer contributed a RBI single, and J.J. Hardy broke the Indians' collective backs with his clutch, two - out, two - run double down the left field line. Once that inning had gone into the books, the game was pretty much over.
Cleveland had numerous scoring opportunities, but each and every time they threatened, Minnesota's defense turned in a huge rally - killing double play.
Liriano's seven shutout innings easily allowed him to outpitch Jake Westbrook, who was roughed up for four tallies in six frames.
Cleveland Indians: Perseverance Gives Indians 6th Straight Win
7 - 20 - 10 at Minnesota W, 4 - 3 40 - 54
It appeared as if a bit of bad luck was going to ruin the Tribe's winning streak. The Twins had picked up one cheap hit after another to tie the game in the 7th inning, and momentum seemed to be on the home team's side. However, the Indians bounced back, regained the lead, and held on to secure their sixth consecutive win.
Minnesota scored a run in the 1st thanks to some pretty poor defense turned in by Cleveland. Jason Donald failed to get a good break on a line drive to second, and that resulted in a gift single. And then, Matt LaPorta bobbled a grounder, costing him a chance at turning a double play. Justin Masterson remained cool, though, and he was able to minimize the damage.
In the 5th, the Tribe finally tied the game as Jason Donald ripped a two - out, RBI double to the wall in left field.
The Indians followed that big hit up with another one in the 6th. The bases were loaded and two men were out when Shelley Duncan hit a shot that landed right on the chalk down the left field line. The ball kicked into foul territory, and the play wound up being a two - run single.
The way Masterson was going, that should have been enough, but he and bullpen ran into some terrible misfortune in the 7th. The Twins hit three seeing - eye groundball singles and one bloop base hit to score twice and tie the game.
That phased the Indians for about five minutes. Carlos Santana led off the top of the 8th with a walk and he scored when the next batter, Travis Hafner, roped a double up the alley in right - center.
Joe Smith and Chris Perez were brilliant in the final two frames and the Tribe held on for the slim victory.
It appeared as if a bit of bad luck was going to ruin the Tribe's winning streak. The Twins had picked up one cheap hit after another to tie the game in the 7th inning, and momentum seemed to be on the home team's side. However, the Indians bounced back, regained the lead, and held on to secure their sixth consecutive win.
Minnesota scored a run in the 1st thanks to some pretty poor defense turned in by Cleveland. Jason Donald failed to get a good break on a line drive to second, and that resulted in a gift single. And then, Matt LaPorta bobbled a grounder, costing him a chance at turning a double play. Justin Masterson remained cool, though, and he was able to minimize the damage.
In the 5th, the Tribe finally tied the game as Jason Donald ripped a two - out, RBI double to the wall in left field.
The Indians followed that big hit up with another one in the 6th. The bases were loaded and two men were out when Shelley Duncan hit a shot that landed right on the chalk down the left field line. The ball kicked into foul territory, and the play wound up being a two - run single.
The way Masterson was going, that should have been enough, but he and bullpen ran into some terrible misfortune in the 7th. The Twins hit three seeing - eye groundball singles and one bloop base hit to score twice and tie the game.
That phased the Indians for about five minutes. Carlos Santana led off the top of the 8th with a walk and he scored when the next batter, Travis Hafner, roped a double up the alley in right - center.
Joe Smith and Chris Perez were brilliant in the final two frames and the Tribe held on for the slim victory.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Makes History Thanks to Hit Barrage
7 - 19 - 10 at Minnesota W, 10 - 4 39 - 54
No team in the history of the Indians' franchise had ever won five consecutive games following the All - Star Break, until now. The Tribe stormed into Minneapolis and destroyed the Twins behind a 20 - hit onslaught.
Cleveland broke through on the scoreboard in the 2nd inning as they began to pepper Twins' pitching with a steady diet of base hits. Leading off, Travis Hafner singled and Jhonny Peralta walked, setting the stage for the beginning of a great night. Trevor Crowe would finish the game with four hits, including this RBI double that he flaired to the gap in left - center field. Jason Donald, much like he has done all season, put the ball in play in a key situation, and he was credited with a RBI on his groundout to shortstop.
Minnesota could only score once in the 4th despite having a great chance to score much more. The main culprit was a Delmon Young drive off the wall in left that Trevor Crowe disguised into being an out, which forced the runners to hold up. Young, though, was credited with a single following a review by the umpires.
The Indians made the Twins' pay for their missed opportunity by pounding out a five - spot in the 5th. Delmon Young misplayed a Carlos Santana fly ball down the line in left, and the Tribe catcher wound up at second base with a gift double to start the rally. Shelley Duncan followed with a single, but after Hafner popped out and Peralta hit a sac fly, it appeared as if Cleveland might only get one run. That, however, is when the Indians' offense exploded for five straight singles. Matt LaPorta, Trevor Crowe, Jason Donald, Michael Brantley, and Jayson Nix were the ones who made the streak happen, and the final four base knocks all drove in exactly one base runner.
The Tribe went on to add some insurance while Minnesota was able to threaten, but never have the big inning they so desperately needed.
Aaron Laffey was once again hampered by low velocity on his fastball and a rising pitch count, yet he lasted five frames without allowing an earned run, and the win that he picked up was just his second of the year.
No team in the history of the Indians' franchise had ever won five consecutive games following the All - Star Break, until now. The Tribe stormed into Minneapolis and destroyed the Twins behind a 20 - hit onslaught.
Cleveland broke through on the scoreboard in the 2nd inning as they began to pepper Twins' pitching with a steady diet of base hits. Leading off, Travis Hafner singled and Jhonny Peralta walked, setting the stage for the beginning of a great night. Trevor Crowe would finish the game with four hits, including this RBI double that he flaired to the gap in left - center field. Jason Donald, much like he has done all season, put the ball in play in a key situation, and he was credited with a RBI on his groundout to shortstop.
Minnesota could only score once in the 4th despite having a great chance to score much more. The main culprit was a Delmon Young drive off the wall in left that Trevor Crowe disguised into being an out, which forced the runners to hold up. Young, though, was credited with a single following a review by the umpires.
The Indians made the Twins' pay for their missed opportunity by pounding out a five - spot in the 5th. Delmon Young misplayed a Carlos Santana fly ball down the line in left, and the Tribe catcher wound up at second base with a gift double to start the rally. Shelley Duncan followed with a single, but after Hafner popped out and Peralta hit a sac fly, it appeared as if Cleveland might only get one run. That, however, is when the Indians' offense exploded for five straight singles. Matt LaPorta, Trevor Crowe, Jason Donald, Michael Brantley, and Jayson Nix were the ones who made the streak happen, and the final four base knocks all drove in exactly one base runner.
The Tribe went on to add some insurance while Minnesota was able to threaten, but never have the big inning they so desperately needed.
Aaron Laffey was once again hampered by low velocity on his fastball and a rising pitch count, yet he lasted five frames without allowing an earned run, and the win that he picked up was just his second of the year.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Sweeps The Tigers Behind Unlikely Hero
7 - 18 - 10 vs. Detroit W, 7 - 2 38 - 54
He was told that it would simply be a spot start, and that he would be headed back to the minor leagues afterwards, yet Jeanmar Gomez was still very excited to be making his major league debut against the Tigers. And he turned that excitement into a gem as he went seven innings without allowing a single earned run, and he quickly picked up his first career win to help the Tribe to a stunning sweep of Detroit.
The Indians gave their young pitcher all the support he would need by producing their most exciting play of the year in the 1st. There were two men on base with two outs when Jhonny Peralta lofted a fly ball into deep right - center field. Ryan Raburn made a valiant attempt at a catch, but he went crashing through the bullpen door that is a part of the wall in that portion of the outfield, while the ball went rolling into left - center. That enabled Peralta to circle the bases for an improbable three - run, inside - the - park homer.
In the 4th, after a pair of walks, Jason Donald and Michael Brantley both came through in the clutch with a RBI grounder and a RBI single, respectively. The rout was on.
Gomez hit his only rough patch in the 6th, and even though he allowed the Tigers to score twice, neither run was earned due to an error by Andy Marte at first base.
The Tribe was able to score two more times on a Matt LaPorta triple in the 7th, and on a Jayson Nix single in the 8th.
He was told that it would simply be a spot start, and that he would be headed back to the minor leagues afterwards, yet Jeanmar Gomez was still very excited to be making his major league debut against the Tigers. And he turned that excitement into a gem as he went seven innings without allowing a single earned run, and he quickly picked up his first career win to help the Tribe to a stunning sweep of Detroit.
The Indians gave their young pitcher all the support he would need by producing their most exciting play of the year in the 1st. There were two men on base with two outs when Jhonny Peralta lofted a fly ball into deep right - center field. Ryan Raburn made a valiant attempt at a catch, but he went crashing through the bullpen door that is a part of the wall in that portion of the outfield, while the ball went rolling into left - center. That enabled Peralta to circle the bases for an improbable three - run, inside - the - park homer.
In the 4th, after a pair of walks, Jason Donald and Michael Brantley both came through in the clutch with a RBI grounder and a RBI single, respectively. The rout was on.
Gomez hit his only rough patch in the 6th, and even though he allowed the Tigers to score twice, neither run was earned due to an error by Andy Marte at first base.
The Tribe was able to score two more times on a Matt LaPorta triple in the 7th, and on a Jayson Nix single in the 8th.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Completes Doubleheader Sweep of the Tigers
7 - 17 - 10 vs. Detroit W, 2 - 1 (11 innings) 37 - 54
First, the Indians had to play a game earlier in the day, then, they had to wait out a rain delay, and, finally, they had to play extra innings to sweep a twin bill from the rival Detroit Tigers.
The Tigers squandered a big scoring opportunity in the 1st inning, but they came right back to score what would prove to be their lone run of the game in the 2nd. With two outs, Ryan Raburn hit a grounder back up the middle that scored Danny Worth.
Rick Porcello was nearly unhittable in this game, except for in one at - bat in the 4th. That's when Carlos Santana unloaded a solo home run over the center field wall to tie the game at one.
The two clubs then played six straight scoreless frames as both pitching staffs were brilliant. However, following a one hour and fifty - three minute rain dealy, the Tribe offense was ready to send a tired crowd home happy in the 11th.
The winning rally did not look like it was ever going to materialize after the first two batters in the inning were retired. Jayson Nix, though, was able to keep it alive by blooping a single into short center. Carlos Santana was then walked, setting the table for Austin Kearns. Kearns worked the count full, and then on the payoff pitch, he drilled a single to left field. Don Kelly bobbled the ball in left, allowing Nix to score the game - winning run quite easily.
First, the Indians had to play a game earlier in the day, then, they had to wait out a rain delay, and, finally, they had to play extra innings to sweep a twin bill from the rival Detroit Tigers.
The Tigers squandered a big scoring opportunity in the 1st inning, but they came right back to score what would prove to be their lone run of the game in the 2nd. With two outs, Ryan Raburn hit a grounder back up the middle that scored Danny Worth.
Rick Porcello was nearly unhittable in this game, except for in one at - bat in the 4th. That's when Carlos Santana unloaded a solo home run over the center field wall to tie the game at one.
The two clubs then played six straight scoreless frames as both pitching staffs were brilliant. However, following a one hour and fifty - three minute rain dealy, the Tribe offense was ready to send a tired crowd home happy in the 11th.
The winning rally did not look like it was ever going to materialize after the first two batters in the inning were retired. Jayson Nix, though, was able to keep it alive by blooping a single into short center. Carlos Santana was then walked, setting the table for Austin Kearns. Kearns worked the count full, and then on the payoff pitch, he drilled a single to left field. Don Kelly bobbled the ball in left, allowing Nix to score the game - winning run quite easily.
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Rallies to Beat Verlander, Tigers
7 - 17 - 10 vs. Detroit W, 4 - 3 36 - 54
Spotting Justin Verlander with a 3 - 0 lead is never a good idea, especially when you are just beginning what could quickly become a long and miserable doubleheader. Yet, that is exactly what the Indians did, and, incredibly, they came back and won.
The Tigers got all three of those runs in the 1st inning. After two men had been retired, Carlos Guillen bounced a two - run single back up the middle, and Brandon Inge followed with a RBI double to the alley in left - center field. The frame mercifully ended when Guillen was thrown out at the plate attempting to score on Inge's two - bagger.
The Tribe began their comeback against Detroit's ace in the 3rd as they scored twice before anyone had been retired. Andy Marte singled, Jason Donald doubled to the gap in right - center, scoring Marte, and Michael Brantley rolled one into center that scored Donald.
After wasting a scoring opportunity in the 5th, Cleveland finally drew even in the 6th. Verlander uncorked a pair of wild pitches, and the second one scored Shelley Duncan from third base. The Tigers had a chance to get Duncan at the dish, but catcher Alex Avila's throw was slightly off - line.
The Indians finally grabbed the lead in the 7th, and they did it by performing a little two - out magic at the expense of Detroit's bullpen. Matt LaPorta doubled and Shelley Duncan walked, bringing up the man of the hour, Trevor Crowe. And Crowe delivered by hitting a single to right that plated LaPorta and gave the Tribe the eventual game - winning tally.
The Tigers put some threats together late in the game, but Cleveland's relief corps met the challenge each and every time, and it was Chris Perez who worked around a bit of a mess in the 9th to earn the save.
Fausto Carmona bounced back from the disastrous 1st inning and he was able to go six scoreless frames after the early meltdown. Carmona was also able to pick up the win, his ninth of the year.
And now, back to our friend, Mr. Verlander. He was not saddled with the loss, but those three runs he gave up proved to be the difference in this game.
Spotting Justin Verlander with a 3 - 0 lead is never a good idea, especially when you are just beginning what could quickly become a long and miserable doubleheader. Yet, that is exactly what the Indians did, and, incredibly, they came back and won.
The Tigers got all three of those runs in the 1st inning. After two men had been retired, Carlos Guillen bounced a two - run single back up the middle, and Brandon Inge followed with a RBI double to the alley in left - center field. The frame mercifully ended when Guillen was thrown out at the plate attempting to score on Inge's two - bagger.
The Tribe began their comeback against Detroit's ace in the 3rd as they scored twice before anyone had been retired. Andy Marte singled, Jason Donald doubled to the gap in right - center, scoring Marte, and Michael Brantley rolled one into center that scored Donald.
After wasting a scoring opportunity in the 5th, Cleveland finally drew even in the 6th. Verlander uncorked a pair of wild pitches, and the second one scored Shelley Duncan from third base. The Tigers had a chance to get Duncan at the dish, but catcher Alex Avila's throw was slightly off - line.
The Indians finally grabbed the lead in the 7th, and they did it by performing a little two - out magic at the expense of Detroit's bullpen. Matt LaPorta doubled and Shelley Duncan walked, bringing up the man of the hour, Trevor Crowe. And Crowe delivered by hitting a single to right that plated LaPorta and gave the Tribe the eventual game - winning tally.
The Tigers put some threats together late in the game, but Cleveland's relief corps met the challenge each and every time, and it was Chris Perez who worked around a bit of a mess in the 9th to earn the save.
Fausto Carmona bounced back from the disastrous 1st inning and he was able to go six scoreless frames after the early meltdown. Carmona was also able to pick up the win, his ninth of the year.
And now, back to our friend, Mr. Verlander. He was not saddled with the loss, but those three runs he gave up proved to be the difference in this game.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Routs the Tigers
7 - 16 - 10 vs. Detroit W, 8 - 2 35 - 54
As Progressive Field re - opened for business following the All - Star Break, the two teams on display, the Indians and the Tigers, did not resemble the clubs they had been in the first half of the season. The Tribe pitched remarkably well and all of the sudden, their bats woke up. Meanwhile, Detroit's powerful offense could not get anything going and their pitching got rocked.
The Tigers did get on the board first when Miguel Cabrera hit a RBI single in the 1st inning. That, however, would be their last lead of the game.
Cleveland roared to life in the bottom of the 2nd thanks to Trevor Crowe. The Indians' left fielder tripled home a run and then he himself scored on Jason Donald's fielder's choice.
Detroit was able to tie the game in the top of the 4th, but the Tribe came right back to regain the advantage in the bottom of the 4th. Crowe doubled and Andy Marte launched a two - run homer to the seats in left.
Even though Cleveland did not need any more runs in order to get this win, they still went out and piled on four more in the 6th. The rally started with a ground ball single, an infield single, a sac fly, and a bloop single, and then it was wrapped up on Austin Kearns' two - run belt to right.
Jake Westbrook, who was finally the benificiary of some runs, picked up the win after pitching 5 2/3 frames while surrendering just two tallies.
As Progressive Field re - opened for business following the All - Star Break, the two teams on display, the Indians and the Tigers, did not resemble the clubs they had been in the first half of the season. The Tribe pitched remarkably well and all of the sudden, their bats woke up. Meanwhile, Detroit's powerful offense could not get anything going and their pitching got rocked.
The Tigers did get on the board first when Miguel Cabrera hit a RBI single in the 1st inning. That, however, would be their last lead of the game.
Cleveland roared to life in the bottom of the 2nd thanks to Trevor Crowe. The Indians' left fielder tripled home a run and then he himself scored on Jason Donald's fielder's choice.
Detroit was able to tie the game in the top of the 4th, but the Tribe came right back to regain the advantage in the bottom of the 4th. Crowe doubled and Andy Marte launched a two - run homer to the seats in left.
Even though Cleveland did not need any more runs in order to get this win, they still went out and piled on four more in the 6th. The rally started with a ground ball single, an infield single, a sac fly, and a bloop single, and then it was wrapped up on Austin Kearns' two - run belt to right.
Jake Westbrook, who was finally the benificiary of some runs, picked up the win after pitching 5 2/3 frames while surrendering just two tallies.
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Limps Into Break Following Excruciating Loss
7 - 11 - 10 at Tampa Bay L, 6 - 5 (10 innings) 34 - 54
The Indians would have like to end the season's first half with a victory, but the Rays shattered those hopes in extra innings at Tropicana Field.
After Hector Ambriz worked out of a bases loaded, no - out mess in the bottom of the 9th, Kerry Wood allowed a Jason Bartlett walk - off RBI single to the gap in right - center field in the 10th that sent Cleveland into the All - Star Break on a down note.
The Indians would have like to end the season's first half with a victory, but the Rays shattered those hopes in extra innings at Tropicana Field.
After Hector Ambriz worked out of a bases loaded, no - out mess in the bottom of the 9th, Kerry Wood allowed a Jason Bartlett walk - off RBI single to the gap in right - center field in the 10th that sent Cleveland into the All - Star Break on a down note.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Rays Top Tribe Behind Great Pitching and Timely Defense
7 - 10 - 10 at Tampa Bay L, 4 - 0 34 - 53
A night after getting blown out by the Indians, the Rays returned to playing their brand of baseball, pitching and defense. The Tampa Bay staff threw a three - hit shutout with some great help from the fielders behind them.
Offensively, the Rays pecked away for two runs in the 4th inning, one in the 5th, and one in the 8th. Gabe Kapler, Willy Aybar, and Jason Bartlett all produced RBI hits to give their team a fairly comfortable lead heading into the 9th.
In that final frame, the Indians had a legitimate threat going, but Evan Longoria made a sensational diving stop on a grounder to third, and then from his knees he threw to second to begin a rally - killing double play.
Matt Garza allowed only one hit through the first six innings, and his stellar performance earned him the victory.
Meanwhile, Aaron Laffey was not nearly as good as Garza was. Laffey allowed three runs in just 5 2/3 frames as his poor stretch as a starting pitcher continued.
A night after getting blown out by the Indians, the Rays returned to playing their brand of baseball, pitching and defense. The Tampa Bay staff threw a three - hit shutout with some great help from the fielders behind them.
Offensively, the Rays pecked away for two runs in the 4th inning, one in the 5th, and one in the 8th. Gabe Kapler, Willy Aybar, and Jason Bartlett all produced RBI hits to give their team a fairly comfortable lead heading into the 9th.
In that final frame, the Indians had a legitimate threat going, but Evan Longoria made a sensational diving stop on a grounder to third, and then from his knees he threw to second to begin a rally - killing double play.
Matt Garza allowed only one hit through the first six innings, and his stellar performance earned him the victory.
Meanwhile, Aaron Laffey was not nearly as good as Garza was. Laffey allowed three runs in just 5 2/3 frames as his poor stretch as a starting pitcher continued.
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Gives Their All - Star Plenty of Support
7 - 9 - 10 at Tampa Bay W, 9 - 3 34 - 52
In order to have a winning record at the season's midpoint, Fausto Carmona was going to need a little bit of help in Tampa, and, he got it. The Indians backed their only All - Star with an offensive barrage that took the tension, and the Rays, out of this game.
The Tribe grabbed an early lead in the 2nd inning as they took advantage of some mistakes by James Shields. Following a RBI single by Matt LaPorta, the Tampa Bay pitcher balked once and also threw a wild pitch, and those helped put the visitors up by two.
After seeing their advantage cut in half on a Carlos Pena RBI single, Cleveland got a big blow from Jayson Nix, who launched a solo homer to left field in the 5th.
The Indians got another big solo bomb, this one from Shelley Duncan, in the 7th, and it appeared as if the Tribe was in the driver's seat, but things were about to change drastically.
Four consecutive two - out walks were issued by Cleveland's pitching staff in the bottom of the 7th, which forced in a run and gave the Rays a golden opportunity to tie or take the lead. However, Chris Perez recorded a huge strikeout of John Jaso to end the threat.
With the momentum back on their side, the Indians blew it wide open in the 8th. Jhonny Peralta had the biggest blow, a three - run homer, and Jason Donald later added a RBI double.
The Tribe cruised from there, giving Carmona a win that put his record at 8 - 7. Carmona went gone 6 2/3 frames of two - run pitching in the contest.
In order to have a winning record at the season's midpoint, Fausto Carmona was going to need a little bit of help in Tampa, and, he got it. The Indians backed their only All - Star with an offensive barrage that took the tension, and the Rays, out of this game.
The Tribe grabbed an early lead in the 2nd inning as they took advantage of some mistakes by James Shields. Following a RBI single by Matt LaPorta, the Tampa Bay pitcher balked once and also threw a wild pitch, and those helped put the visitors up by two.
After seeing their advantage cut in half on a Carlos Pena RBI single, Cleveland got a big blow from Jayson Nix, who launched a solo homer to left field in the 5th.
The Indians got another big solo bomb, this one from Shelley Duncan, in the 7th, and it appeared as if the Tribe was in the driver's seat, but things were about to change drastically.
Four consecutive two - out walks were issued by Cleveland's pitching staff in the bottom of the 7th, which forced in a run and gave the Rays a golden opportunity to tie or take the lead. However, Chris Perez recorded a huge strikeout of John Jaso to end the threat.
With the momentum back on their side, the Indians blew it wide open in the 8th. Jhonny Peralta had the biggest blow, a three - run homer, and Jason Donald later added a RBI double.
The Tribe cruised from there, giving Carmona a win that put his record at 8 - 7. Carmona went gone 6 2/3 frames of two - run pitching in the contest.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Indians are Out - Homered in St. Pete
7 - 8 - 10 at Tampa Bay L, 5 - 2 33 - 52
While Lebron James was making the city of Cleveland miserable by announcing his decision to play for the Miami Heat, the Indians were already down in Florida, and they were taking part in a game that resembled a home run derby. Unfortunately for the Tribe, though, the Rays out homered the visitors and beat them 5 - 2.
The Tribe could only manage a pair of solo homers, one by Michael Brantley leading off the ballgame, and another by Andy Marte in the 2nd inning. Brantley's long ball was not just the first of the season for him, but it was also the first of his career.
Sandwiched in between those two Cleveland runs was the beginning of the Carl Crawford show. He absolutely drilled a two - run shot to right field in the bottom of the 1st that gave Tampa a short - lived lead. After Marte tied the game, Crawford got back to work in the 3rd by hitting another two - run belt to almost the exact same spot. Ben Zobrist preceeded both of Crawford's dingers with base hits.
Carlos Pena finished off the slug- fest two batters later as he lofted a solo blast into the seats in left.
The Indians' starter, Jake Westbrook, was obviously victimized by the gopher ball, and he lost the game after having gone six frames.
Wade Davis picked up the win and Dan Wheeler, the save; both for the Rays.
While Lebron James was making the city of Cleveland miserable by announcing his decision to play for the Miami Heat, the Indians were already down in Florida, and they were taking part in a game that resembled a home run derby. Unfortunately for the Tribe, though, the Rays out homered the visitors and beat them 5 - 2.
The Tribe could only manage a pair of solo homers, one by Michael Brantley leading off the ballgame, and another by Andy Marte in the 2nd inning. Brantley's long ball was not just the first of the season for him, but it was also the first of his career.
Sandwiched in between those two Cleveland runs was the beginning of the Carl Crawford show. He absolutely drilled a two - run shot to right field in the bottom of the 1st that gave Tampa a short - lived lead. After Marte tied the game, Crawford got back to work in the 3rd by hitting another two - run belt to almost the exact same spot. Ben Zobrist preceeded both of Crawford's dingers with base hits.
Carlos Pena finished off the slug- fest two batters later as he lofted a solo blast into the seats in left.
The Indians' starter, Jake Westbrook, was obviously victimized by the gopher ball, and he lost the game after having gone six frames.
Wade Davis picked up the win and Dan Wheeler, the save; both for the Rays.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Cleveland Cavaliers: The Flawed King Leaves For South Beach
In the Eastern Conference Semifinals this past season, LeBron James showed his immaturity by quitting on his team against the Boston Celtics.
Then, he revealed his self - absorption in the way he created a carnival act out of his free agency decision.
And finally, we all witnessed his disloyalty late last night, on national television no less, when the King left his hometown team to go play ball in Miami.
As Clevelanders, we have seen this countless times before. We have seen great teams choke in the playoffs. We have watched as superstars leave our city to go take their talents elsewhere.
This particular devastating event could be chalked up as simply another one of those chapters in the miserable story that is Cleveland sports, but, this one is different.
LeBron James was ours. The Cavs drafted him, catered to him, and surrounded him with sufficient talent. We crowned him "The King," and we cheered his every move. And not only did we adore him, but he was one of us. He was born and raised in northeast Ohio which makes his decision even more difficult to swallow. How could someone betray their own city like LeBron did last night? Yet, there he was, driving a knife into our backs and giving it one good twist as he headed out the door.
Then, he revealed his self - absorption in the way he created a carnival act out of his free agency decision.
And finally, we all witnessed his disloyalty late last night, on national television no less, when the King left his hometown team to go play ball in Miami.
As Clevelanders, we have seen this countless times before. We have seen great teams choke in the playoffs. We have watched as superstars leave our city to go take their talents elsewhere.
This particular devastating event could be chalked up as simply another one of those chapters in the miserable story that is Cleveland sports, but, this one is different.
LeBron James was ours. The Cavs drafted him, catered to him, and surrounded him with sufficient talent. We crowned him "The King," and we cheered his every move. And not only did we adore him, but he was one of us. He was born and raised in northeast Ohio which makes his decision even more difficult to swallow. How could someone betray their own city like LeBron did last night? Yet, there he was, driving a knife into our backs and giving it one good twist as he headed out the door.
Cleveland Indians: Rangers Come From Behind to Take Series
7 - 7 - 10 at Texas L, 4 - 3 33 - 51
So, the beat goes on for the young, inexperienced Cleveland Indians. They always play hard, yet they are rarely able to emerge victorious. In this series finale against the Rangers, the Tribe had a lead halfway through the ballgame, but they were not able to hold on coming down the stretch.
The Indians got their offense going in the 4th inning after falling behind 1 - 0 on a Josh Hamilton RBI single in the 1st. Jayson Nix's incredible week continued as he hit his fifth homer in as many days, a solo shot to left - center field leading off the 4th. Jhonny Peralta would later add a RBI single, and the Indians had themselves a slim advantage.
Cleveland went up by two in the 5th when Andres Blanco allowed a Travis Hafner grounder to roll between his legs, which gave the Indians an unearned run.
Texas began their rally in the bottom of the 5th with a Michael Young two - run homer into the right field bleachers, and they finished it the very next frame when Julio Borbon lined a two - out RBI single back up the middle.
A frustrated Manny Acta was tossed out of the contest in the 9th for arguing balls and strikes, but it did nothing to rattle closer Neftali Feliz, who wound up earning a routine save.
Mitch Talbot's mid - season slump continued with a sub - par outing that dropped his season record to 8 - 8.
So, the beat goes on for the young, inexperienced Cleveland Indians. They always play hard, yet they are rarely able to emerge victorious. In this series finale against the Rangers, the Tribe had a lead halfway through the ballgame, but they were not able to hold on coming down the stretch.
The Indians got their offense going in the 4th inning after falling behind 1 - 0 on a Josh Hamilton RBI single in the 1st. Jayson Nix's incredible week continued as he hit his fifth homer in as many days, a solo shot to left - center field leading off the 4th. Jhonny Peralta would later add a RBI single, and the Indians had themselves a slim advantage.
Cleveland went up by two in the 5th when Andres Blanco allowed a Travis Hafner grounder to roll between his legs, which gave the Indians an unearned run.
Texas began their rally in the bottom of the 5th with a Michael Young two - run homer into the right field bleachers, and they finished it the very next frame when Julio Borbon lined a two - out RBI single back up the middle.
A frustrated Manny Acta was tossed out of the contest in the 9th for arguing balls and strikes, but it did nothing to rattle closer Neftali Feliz, who wound up earning a routine save.
Mitch Talbot's mid - season slump continued with a sub - par outing that dropped his season record to 8 - 8.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Rangers' Win Overshadowed by Scary Moment
7 - 6 - 10 at Texas L, 12 - 1 33 - 50
A day after the Indians had used the long ball to produce a blowout victory, the Rangers powered their way to an easy win. However, this game will not be remembered for Texas's offensive barrage, but instead for a frightening incident that took place in the 5th inning.
In the 5th, Nelson Cruz fouled a pitch off into the second deck of seats along the first base side. A fan tried to make a catch in the front row, and he lost his balance which sent him toppling into the lower bowl. The fall of 30 feet severely shook the emotions of everyone in attendance, not to mention the physical damage it did to the man who was injured. The contest was delayed 16 minutes while the ballpark's medical personnel attended to the fan. After some serious discussion as to whether the game would be continued, the umpires decided to play on, although the game itself had lost all importance. Thankfully, the fan would wind up being alright after receiving attention at a local hospital.
The Rangers had been leading 3 - 1 at the time of the awful accident, and after play resumed, Texas blitzed the Tribe with nine runs over the next three frames. Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, and David Murphy all hit home runs for the home team.
Cleveland's only tally came way back in the 1st on Jayson Nix's solo homer to left field. The gopher ball was Nix's third in the series.
Justin Masterson's inconsistent season continued with a short outing that saw him get roughed up for seven runs. The loss was his eighth and it came on the heels of one of his best career starts, against the Blue Jays on July 1st.
A day after the Indians had used the long ball to produce a blowout victory, the Rangers powered their way to an easy win. However, this game will not be remembered for Texas's offensive barrage, but instead for a frightening incident that took place in the 5th inning.
In the 5th, Nelson Cruz fouled a pitch off into the second deck of seats along the first base side. A fan tried to make a catch in the front row, and he lost his balance which sent him toppling into the lower bowl. The fall of 30 feet severely shook the emotions of everyone in attendance, not to mention the physical damage it did to the man who was injured. The contest was delayed 16 minutes while the ballpark's medical personnel attended to the fan. After some serious discussion as to whether the game would be continued, the umpires decided to play on, although the game itself had lost all importance. Thankfully, the fan would wind up being alright after receiving attention at a local hospital.
The Rangers had been leading 3 - 1 at the time of the awful accident, and after play resumed, Texas blitzed the Tribe with nine runs over the next three frames. Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, and David Murphy all hit home runs for the home team.
Cleveland's only tally came way back in the 1st on Jayson Nix's solo homer to left field. The gopher ball was Nix's third in the series.
Justin Masterson's inconsistent season continued with a short outing that saw him get roughed up for seven runs. The loss was his eighth and it came on the heels of one of his best career starts, against the Blue Jays on July 1st.
Cleveland Indians: Indians Club Four Homers in Arlington Rout
7 - 5 - 10 at Texas W, 9 - 3 33 - 49
The Indians are not a very good team when it comes to power, but the moment they walked into the home run hitters' haven that is Rangers Ballpark, the Tribe transformed into a club that could belt with the best of 'em. Cleveland blasted four big flies in a rout of the first place Rangers, who looked completely helpless in this series opener.
Jayson Nix had the biggest day at the plate as he blasted a pair of homers in his return to his hometown. Nix launched a solo shot in the 4th and then a two - run jolt in the 7th.
It was not just Nix, however, because Matt LaPorta and Carlos Santana also hit home runs. LaPorta's drove home a pair and Santana's was worth just a single tally.
While the rest of his teammates were having fun with the long ball, Austin Kearns was being miserably productive. Kearns was hit by a pitch three times in this game, setting a franchise record. He was drilled in the back, the hand, and the leg. For all of his suffering, Kearns was able to score a run to help his team win.
Kearns wasn't the only player who was in some pain following this contest. After hitting his home run, Matt LaPorta was knocked out cold in a collision at first base, of all places. He couldn't finish the game, but he will be able to return to the lineup in a few days.
The Rangers thought they had cut the Indians' lead in half on a Nelson Cruz three - run homer in the 7th, but following a review, the call was overturned, and the Tribe was able to hold on for the victory.
The Indians are not a very good team when it comes to power, but the moment they walked into the home run hitters' haven that is Rangers Ballpark, the Tribe transformed into a club that could belt with the best of 'em. Cleveland blasted four big flies in a rout of the first place Rangers, who looked completely helpless in this series opener.
Jayson Nix had the biggest day at the plate as he blasted a pair of homers in his return to his hometown. Nix launched a solo shot in the 4th and then a two - run jolt in the 7th.
It was not just Nix, however, because Matt LaPorta and Carlos Santana also hit home runs. LaPorta's drove home a pair and Santana's was worth just a single tally.
While the rest of his teammates were having fun with the long ball, Austin Kearns was being miserably productive. Kearns was hit by a pitch three times in this game, setting a franchise record. He was drilled in the back, the hand, and the leg. For all of his suffering, Kearns was able to score a run to help his team win.
Kearns wasn't the only player who was in some pain following this contest. After hitting his home run, Matt LaPorta was knocked out cold in a collision at first base, of all places. He couldn't finish the game, but he will be able to return to the lineup in a few days.
The Rangers thought they had cut the Indians' lead in half on a Nelson Cruz three - run homer in the 7th, but following a review, the call was overturned, and the Tribe was able to hold on for the victory.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Cleveland Indians: No Choo, No Series Win for Tribe
7 - 4 - 10 vs. Oakland L, 3 - 1 32 - 49
When the Indians woke up on Independence Day, they were abruptly greeted with the news that they would be without the services of their star right fielder for a while. Shin - Soo Choo, who suffered what appeared to be a minor injury in the series opener against the Athletics, is now headed to the disabled list with a serious thumb injury. That is bad news for the offensively challenged Tribe, and the lack of Choo was clearly evident in a series finale loss to the A's.
After being named as the lone Cleveland representative on the American League All - Star team, Fausto Carmona took the mound, trying to keep the Indians' good stretch going. However, in the 1st inning, the A's pecked away at Carmona, and it resulted in a run. A walk, a passed ball, and a pair of groundout led to the score, and Ryan Sweeney picked up the RBI.
The Tribe pushed their lone run of the game across in the 3rd. With two outs, Carlos Santana, Travis Hafner, and Austin Kearns hit three consecutive singles with Kearns's driving in Santana.
The A's sealed the Indians' fate coming down the stretch as Mark Ellis contributed a RBI single in the 4th, and Adam Rosales, a solo homer in the 7th.
Fausto Carmona was able to work seven frames, but he was saddled with the loss that put his season record at a pedestrian 7 - 7. As usual, though, Cleveland did not give their sinkerballer a whole lot of support.
When the Indians woke up on Independence Day, they were abruptly greeted with the news that they would be without the services of their star right fielder for a while. Shin - Soo Choo, who suffered what appeared to be a minor injury in the series opener against the Athletics, is now headed to the disabled list with a serious thumb injury. That is bad news for the offensively challenged Tribe, and the lack of Choo was clearly evident in a series finale loss to the A's.
After being named as the lone Cleveland representative on the American League All - Star team, Fausto Carmona took the mound, trying to keep the Indians' good stretch going. However, in the 1st inning, the A's pecked away at Carmona, and it resulted in a run. A walk, a passed ball, and a pair of groundout led to the score, and Ryan Sweeney picked up the RBI.
The Tribe pushed their lone run of the game across in the 3rd. With two outs, Carlos Santana, Travis Hafner, and Austin Kearns hit three consecutive singles with Kearns's driving in Santana.
The A's sealed the Indians' fate coming down the stretch as Mark Ellis contributed a RBI single in the 4th, and Adam Rosales, a solo homer in the 7th.
Fausto Carmona was able to work seven frames, but he was saddled with the loss that put his season record at a pedestrian 7 - 7. As usual, though, Cleveland did not give their sinkerballer a whole lot of support.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Cleveland Indians: LaPorta the Hero in Extra Innings
7 - 3 - 10 vs. Oakland W, 5 - 4 (10 innings) 32 - 48
One week ago the Indians dealt away Russell Branyan to make room for their first baseman of the future, Matt LaPorta, and he has not disappointed. In just seven games he has swatted three homers and driven in seven runs. And he capped off a great week by hitting a walk - off RBI single in the bottom of the 10th to win this one.
The Tribe's game - winning rally began with a Travis Hafner double up the alley in right - center field, and Anderson Hernandez came on to run for Hafner at second base. Following an intentional walk to Austin Kearns, it was up to LaPorta to deliver some two - out magic. And Matt did deliver as he bounced a single back up the middle that scored Hernandez with the winning run.
Through the first nine frames, the Indians and the A's went back - and forth and it resulted in a 4 - 4 tie at the end of regulation.
Jayson Nix had belted a two - run homer for Cleveland and LaPorta had hit a RBI single, obviously an omen of things to come.
Oakland posted a three - run spot in the 3rd and a single tally in the 7th, but that all went for naught once the game entered extra innings.
One week ago the Indians dealt away Russell Branyan to make room for their first baseman of the future, Matt LaPorta, and he has not disappointed. In just seven games he has swatted three homers and driven in seven runs. And he capped off a great week by hitting a walk - off RBI single in the bottom of the 10th to win this one.
The Tribe's game - winning rally began with a Travis Hafner double up the alley in right - center field, and Anderson Hernandez came on to run for Hafner at second base. Following an intentional walk to Austin Kearns, it was up to LaPorta to deliver some two - out magic. And Matt did deliver as he bounced a single back up the middle that scored Hernandez with the winning run.
Through the first nine frames, the Indians and the A's went back - and forth and it resulted in a 4 - 4 tie at the end of regulation.
Jayson Nix had belted a two - run homer for Cleveland and LaPorta had hit a RBI single, obviously an omen of things to come.
Oakland posted a three - run spot in the 3rd and a single tally in the 7th, but that all went for naught once the game entered extra innings.
Cleveland Indians: A's Blank Tribe to End Streak
7 - 2 - 10 vs. Oakland L, 3 - 0 31 - 48
Mitch Talbot started the Indians' five - game winning steak with a brilliant outing in Cincinnati, but he could not keep it alive against the A's. Due to a rising pitch count, Talbot was only able to last 5 1/3 innings, and in that time he allowed three runs. That was three too many for the Tribe's offense which failed to even put a single tally on the board.
Oakland posted the only run they would need in the 1st as Jack Cust drew a bases loaded walk. The Athletics then sent Talbot to the showers on Mark Ellis's two - run double in the 6th.
Cleveland only put together one legitimate rally, and that came in the bottom of the 6th. The bases were loaded with two outs when Mike Redmond grounded out to the right fielder. And no, that is not a misprint. Ryan Sweeney was somehow able to gun down Redmond at first base from his position way out in right field. That about summed up this night for the Indians.
Mitch Talbot started the Indians' five - game winning steak with a brilliant outing in Cincinnati, but he could not keep it alive against the A's. Due to a rising pitch count, Talbot was only able to last 5 1/3 innings, and in that time he allowed three runs. That was three too many for the Tribe's offense which failed to even put a single tally on the board.
Oakland posted the only run they would need in the 1st as Jack Cust drew a bases loaded walk. The Athletics then sent Talbot to the showers on Mark Ellis's two - run double in the 6th.
Cleveland only put together one legitimate rally, and that came in the bottom of the 6th. The bases were loaded with two outs when Mike Redmond grounded out to the right fielder. And no, that is not a misprint. Ryan Sweeney was somehow able to gun down Redmond at first base from his position way out in right field. That about summed up this night for the Indians.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Tribe Completes Sweep Behind Masterson and Big Inning
7 - 1 - 10 vs. Toronto W, 6 - 1 31 - 47
On a beautiful summer afternoon at Progressive Field, the Indians completed a four - game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays with one of their best - played games of the season. Justin Masterson was dominant throughout his entire start, and the offense packed their punch in the 4th inning.
The Tribe scored six times in that 4th frame, and they did it off of the hapless Shaun Marcum. Following a couple of walks to Shin - Soo Choo and Carlos Santana, Matt LaPorta made Marcum pay by launching a three - run shot onto the Home Run Porch in left field. Shelley Duncan made it back - to - back jacks with his solo homer to almost the exact same spot. Cleveland got a couple more runs when left fielder Fred Lewis allowed a Jason Donald single to skip by him, and when Trevor Crowe blooped a RBI single into center.
Masterson then took care of the rest as he pitched 8 1/3 dominant innings while allowing just a single tally, and that came in the 9th with the game already decided. The impressive outing gave Justin his third win of the season.
The Jays did load the bases in the 9th, so when Frank Herrman came on and induced a game - ending double play, it was good enough for his first career save.
On a beautiful summer afternoon at Progressive Field, the Indians completed a four - game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays with one of their best - played games of the season. Justin Masterson was dominant throughout his entire start, and the offense packed their punch in the 4th inning.
The Tribe scored six times in that 4th frame, and they did it off of the hapless Shaun Marcum. Following a couple of walks to Shin - Soo Choo and Carlos Santana, Matt LaPorta made Marcum pay by launching a three - run shot onto the Home Run Porch in left field. Shelley Duncan made it back - to - back jacks with his solo homer to almost the exact same spot. Cleveland got a couple more runs when left fielder Fred Lewis allowed a Jason Donald single to skip by him, and when Trevor Crowe blooped a RBI single into center.
Masterson then took care of the rest as he pitched 8 1/3 dominant innings while allowing just a single tally, and that came in the 9th with the game already decided. The impressive outing gave Justin his third win of the season.
The Jays did load the bases in the 9th, so when Frank Herrman came on and induced a game - ending double play, it was good enough for his first career save.
Cleveland Indians: Laffey, Pen Dominate Jays
6 - 30 - 10 vs. Toronto W, 3 - 1 30 - 47
The Indians ran their winning streak to four games by executing a strategy they probably drew up in spring training. The starter, Aaron Laffey, got through six strong innings and the bullpen took care of the rest. It was the perfect example of how a big league pitching staff should function in a single game. The offense did not explode, but they did get enough done to support the hurlers.
Shin - Soo Choo continued his hot stretch in the 1st by launching a solo home run deep into the right field bleachers.
Cleveland scored the evenutual game - winning run in the 6th after a single by Jason Donald and a walk to Choo. Carlos Santana rocketed a single into right that scored Donald, and even though Choo was thrown out at third base on the play, the Indians had the tally they needed.
Laffey allowed a couple of hits to start the 7th, so Manny Acta pulled him from the contest and replaced him with Frank Herrman. One of Laffey's runs did score, but Herrman did do the job by striking out a pair and keeping the lead intact.
Matt LaPorta's second homer in as many days, a solo shot to right - center in the 7th, gave the Tribe some insurance.
Joe Smith and Chris Perez then brought the Indians across the finish line with Smith being the set - up man and Perez, the closer.
The Indians ran their winning streak to four games by executing a strategy they probably drew up in spring training. The starter, Aaron Laffey, got through six strong innings and the bullpen took care of the rest. It was the perfect example of how a big league pitching staff should function in a single game. The offense did not explode, but they did get enough done to support the hurlers.
Shin - Soo Choo continued his hot stretch in the 1st by launching a solo home run deep into the right field bleachers.
Cleveland scored the evenutual game - winning run in the 6th after a single by Jason Donald and a walk to Choo. Carlos Santana rocketed a single into right that scored Donald, and even though Choo was thrown out at third base on the play, the Indians had the tally they needed.
Laffey allowed a couple of hits to start the 7th, so Manny Acta pulled him from the contest and replaced him with Frank Herrman. One of Laffey's runs did score, but Herrman did do the job by striking out a pair and keeping the lead intact.
Matt LaPorta's second homer in as many days, a solo shot to right - center in the 7th, gave the Tribe some insurance.
Joe Smith and Chris Perez then brought the Indians across the finish line with Smith being the set - up man and Perez, the closer.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Cleveland Indians: Two - Out Lighting Strikes for the Tribe
6 - 29 - 10 vs. Toronto W, 5 - 4 29 - 47
Scoring with two outs is one of the best things that can happen to an offense in baseball. Not only does it put runs on the board, but it also demoralizes the oppostion. This was clearly evident in this game as the Indians scored four times when they were down to their final out in an inning, and those runs were critical in what proved to be a nail - biter.
After two men had been retired in the bottom of the 1st, Carlos Santana singled and Travis Hafner doubled, setting up the first lightning strike of the evening. Jhonny Peralta bounced a routine grounder to third, but John MacDonald made an awful throw to first that resulted in a two - run throwing error. The Tribe had caught the contest's first break.
Cleveland's lead increased in the 2nd as Trevor Crowe doubled and Shin - Soo Choo drove him in with a single through the right side of the infield. Once again, all of that occurred with two outs.
The Indians got their final two - out tally in the 5th thanks to a Hafner RBI double that came on the heels of a walk by Santana. The Tribe had what seemed like an insurmountable lead at 4 - 0, but things were about to change.
Fausto Carmona, who had looked unhittable in the early going, began to unravel in the 6th. He allowed a two - run single to Adam Lind that cut Cleveland's advantage in half. Manny Acta did get Carmona out of the game before he completely fell apart, and he wound up getting the win as a result of his six frames of three - run pitching.
Matt LaPorta's solo bomb just to the left of center in the 6th gave the Tribe a three - run cushion, and that would loom large because the Jays were about to make their best surge of the night.
That surge came in the 7th, and it was a primary result of bad play by the Indians. A wild pitch allowed one run to score, and Choo dropped a routine fly to allow another runner to cross home plate. However, Cleveland stopped the bleeding right there, and they escaped with the victory.
Kerry Wood earned his third save in as many days.
Scoring with two outs is one of the best things that can happen to an offense in baseball. Not only does it put runs on the board, but it also demoralizes the oppostion. This was clearly evident in this game as the Indians scored four times when they were down to their final out in an inning, and those runs were critical in what proved to be a nail - biter.
After two men had been retired in the bottom of the 1st, Carlos Santana singled and Travis Hafner doubled, setting up the first lightning strike of the evening. Jhonny Peralta bounced a routine grounder to third, but John MacDonald made an awful throw to first that resulted in a two - run throwing error. The Tribe had caught the contest's first break.
Cleveland's lead increased in the 2nd as Trevor Crowe doubled and Shin - Soo Choo drove him in with a single through the right side of the infield. Once again, all of that occurred with two outs.
The Indians got their final two - out tally in the 5th thanks to a Hafner RBI double that came on the heels of a walk by Santana. The Tribe had what seemed like an insurmountable lead at 4 - 0, but things were about to change.
Fausto Carmona, who had looked unhittable in the early going, began to unravel in the 6th. He allowed a two - run single to Adam Lind that cut Cleveland's advantage in half. Manny Acta did get Carmona out of the game before he completely fell apart, and he wound up getting the win as a result of his six frames of three - run pitching.
Matt LaPorta's solo bomb just to the left of center in the 6th gave the Tribe a three - run cushion, and that would loom large because the Jays were about to make their best surge of the night.
That surge came in the 7th, and it was a primary result of bad play by the Indians. A wild pitch allowed one run to score, and Choo dropped a routine fly to allow another runner to cross home plate. However, Cleveland stopped the bleeding right there, and they escaped with the victory.
Kerry Wood earned his third save in as many days.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
