Justin Verlander and pressure of a playoff race overwhelmed the Indians on Thursday night at Progressive Field.
In the top of the 1st inning, Carlos Santana's inability to catch Lonnie Chisenhall's slightly erratic throw led to an unearned run. The error was assigned to Chisenhall, but Santana deserved the brunt of the blame.
When the Tribe returned to its dugout in the middle of the 1st, Asdrubal Cabrera confronted Santana. The 2 appeared to be discussing Santana's misplay, and the conversation quickly became heated before teammates intervened.
The Tigers increased their advantage to 4-0 in the 2nd courtesy of some good fortune. Several softly hit ground balls found holes between infielders, and Austin Jackson's perfectly executed squeeze bunt capped a 3-run outburst.
After fighting amongst themselves, the Indians turned their attention to Veralander and the Tigers in the bottom of the 3rd. Santana cranked a solo homer, and Asdrubal Cabrera drilled a 2-out, 2-run double.
Unfortunately, the Indians did not score again following the 3rd.
Verlander pitched 7 strong innings, while striking out 10, to notch his 100th career victory.
Verlander, though, needed some help from his star center fielder in the 6th. With 1 out and Travis Hafner at 1st base, Santana hit a fly ball deep to center. Jackson sprinted onto the warning track, leaped high into the air, and made a sensational catch as he slammed against the wall. The web gem, which probably saved a run, halted the Indians' final legitimate scoring opportunity.
Fernando Rodney worked a 1-2-3 9th, securing his 33rd consecutive save.
Like Verlander, Fausto Carmona allowed 3 earned runs in 7 innings of work. The difference was that unearned tally in the 1st, and it was the reason Carmona suffered the loss.
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| Asdrubal and the Indians had only themselves to blame |
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