Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Just In From the Desert


Yeah, the bats finally woke up.  The Tribe pounded 7 extra base hits, including 3 home runs in the first three innings, as they throttled the D-Bags 10-2.

Hot Corner: Jack Hannahan (.400) took advantage of the start, smashing a third inning grand slam off of Arizona phenom Tyler Skaggs to break the game wide open.  It was no cheapie, either.  Lonnie Chisenhall (.500) followed with a 1-for-2 effort.  This is just me, but I have to believe that if Captain Jack hits, he's going to be the man on Opening Day.

#5David Huff (3.60) blinked first, allowing two earned as he stretched himself out over 3 innings.  Huff surrendered two hits and a walk while striking out 3.  Still, it was a solid outing, as the fifth starter quintet continues to do nothing but impress.

Left Of Center:  Although Felix Pie (.167) entered late, he took full advantage.  Pie showed off his speed in legging out an 8th inning triple and coming home on a wild pitch.  New day, same crappy Matt LaPorta (.000), who whiffed in his only AB and is still hunting for his first spring hit.

Somewhere Out ThereFreddy Lewis (.200) got the start in left field and played well as the Indians piled up early runs.  Lewis was 1-for-3 with a walk and a run scored.  Trevor Crowe (.000) patrolled left after Lewis called it a day, going 0-for-1.  Is he really a consideration for this spot?  Certainly not unless he hits.

Bench Me:  Not much.  Cord Phelps (.000) is the Crowe of this category, hundred to one odds.  Phelps walked in his only trip.

Mightier Than the SwordFrank Herrmann (12.00) rebounded from an atrocious debut with two excellent innings (H, BB, 3 K) to close the game.  Hector Ambriz (0.00) did him one better with two perfect innings and three punchouts.  Ambriz might be a darkhorse for the last bullpen spot, but do not count him out.

The Tribe return to Goodyear on Thursday with a 3:05p tilt against the Halos.