The starter was far from the only issue against the Twins. Chad Durbin (ugh, it's back) removed any realistic possibility of an Indians' comeback by surrendering four runs in his two innings of "relief." Durbin (7.56 ERA) had put together a couple of consecutive clean outings, but he got hit hard today, really hard. Among the four hits allowed were a line-shot home run and a double to the gap that almost got out as well. Let's start an official "DFA Durbin" chant.
All of this against an offense that entered play batting a robust .233 and averaging a whole three runs per game. There is no excuse for this kind of pitching display.
Still, the offense could have done a lot more. Outside of Grady Sizemore's 8th inning two-run shot down the right field line, the lineup was meek and ineffectual. They have appeared unable to take advantage of some sub-par opposing starters. Brian Duensing? Bruce Chen? C'mon guys. Of Sizemore's 9 hits since returning from the DL, five (3 2B, 2 HR) have been for extra bases. Even after an 0-for-4 today, Michael Brantley is still hitting .296 with an OBP dancing right around .400. While Manny Acta seems reluctant to redesign his lineup card, wouldn't it seem much more sensible to bat Brantley leadoff and take advantage of Sizemore's power deeper in the lineup? There is, of course, the theory that batting Brantley at seven effectively creates a second leadoff man that utilizes Sizemore's production anyway. There might, emphasis on might, be some merit to this thought, but when your club cannot outslug the opposition with the likes of Sean O'Sullivan on the mound, it is likely time to get back to basics.
In case you're wondering, the Clippers have been rained out on back to back days now, although Johnny Cueto did sign for me during warm-ups yesterday. I officially remove my hex. He can keep his arm. I do not think the man speaks English as well as, say, Shin-Soo Choo.
Cheers.
