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| Chris Sale: One run allowed in 14 major league appearances. |
We Minnesota fans know that the Twins didn't do much at the plate this weekend in Cleveland. Shut out by Fausto Carmona on Friday, shut out for 11 innings on Saturday, and Sunday's five-run first inning was fueled by a Cleveland error.
It still added up to two wins. Chicago, at home against Kansas City, also got two wins, and as with the Twins, can feel fortunate about it.
Kansas City led Friday 3-1 in the eighth inning but gave up three unearned runs to lose 4-3.
And on Sunday, the Royals scored six runs in the first inning and couldn't make it stand up. Phil Humber — remember him from the Santana trade? — got charged with the loss, but really, it was a group effort. The Royals used six pitchers; the lowest ERA of the bunch is now 4.41.
Those two games are good examples of why bad teams are bad.
Of interest concerning the Sox: Chris Sale, the rookie lefty, is now closing for them. He got the save Friday; he finished Sunday's 12-6 win, with J.J. Putz and Matt Thornton handling set-up duties. He hasn't pitched 20 innings yet, but he's sure got Ozzie Guillen's confidence.
Ed, which team would you rather meet in the first round of the playoffs: Tampa or NY? I actually feel confident that the Twins can beat the Yanks, especially with home field advantage. I'd much rather have Liriano and Pavano than Sabbathia and whoever is 2# for them this week. But the Rays scare me; they have too much depth and speed and overall talent.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Chris. The Rangers swept the Yankees this weekend. Seems the mighty Yanks are not quite as invincible as we thought.
ReplyDeleteIt can't happen, but i'd rather see the Twins face Texas in the first round.
ReplyDeleteNo easy pickings in either direction. I do think Tampa Bay is the best team in the AL, and I expect that will be evident in the final standings.