Game Previews

Game #137: Cleveland Indians (58-79) at Minnesota Twins (56-81)

By Mike Brandyberry

The Indians lost Wednesday evening to the Detroit Tigers 7-1 when Ubaldo Jimenez pitched well, but ran out of gas and Cody Allen allowed the Tigers to pull away. The Tribe had their first chance at a sweep since June, but were unable to cash in. Yesterday the team enjoyed an off day while travelling to Minnesota for this weekend’s series.

The last time Cleveland entered Target Field they were three and one-half games in back of first place and in the thick of the division and Wild Card races before they suffered a three-game sweep at the hands of the Twins. Target Field is as much of the scene of the crime to the Indians second half free fall as anywhere. After being swept by the Twins in late July the team made no moves at the trade deadline and began moving toward youth instead of competing in the race.

Tonight the Indians send Jeanmar Gomez (5-7, 5.08 ERA) to the mound to start the series. He replaces the injured Roberto Hernandez who sprained his ankle and is in a walking boot. This is the second straight start missed by Hernandez. Gomez was recalled from Triple-A Columbus to pitch in relief, but threw five and two-third innings against the Texas Rangers on September 1 for the win. It was his first start since his demotion on June 26.

Minnesota counters with Liam Hendriks (0-7, 6.11 ERA). Hendricks, a right-hander, is still looking for his first Major League win. He allowed three runs in three and two-third innings last Sunday against Kansas City. While he has struggled as a big leaguer, the Twins have gone 8-4 against the Indians this season, so if Hendricks is to earn his first win the Tribe could be his best chance.

Game time from Minneapolis is slated for 8:05 pm locally. The game can be found on television on SportsTime Ohio and on the Indians Radio Network.

Cleveland Indians Starting Lineup
1. Shin-Soo Choo, RF
2. Jason Kipnis, 2B
3. Asdrubal Cabrera, SS
4. Carlos Santana, C
5. Michael Brantley, CF
6. Russ Canzler, DH
7. Casey Kotchman, 1B
8. Vinny Rottino, LF
9. Jack Hannahan, 3B