What, you thought the Indians would win a series against the White Sox, and I'd forget to blog about it?
Wednesday was an example of all the things that need to go right for the Indians to have a chance in the Central this year. They got clutch hitting, great bullpen work, a get-me-over start from Cliff Lee, and a typical Bob Wickman save delivered on a trembling platter.
Grady Sizemore and Jason Michaels took charge with seven hits between them. It was Michaels' double in the top of the 11th inning that provided Cleveland with the winning run.
If both Sizemore and Michaels hit .300 this year, the rest of the offense can fall into place behind them and the Indians should seldom hurt for runs.
The 4-3 extra-inning win was only the third game of the season, but it was significant for the Indians. It was a one-run win for a team that lost all nine one-run decisions against the White Sox a year ago. It was a series win for a team that went 5-14 against the White Sox a year ago.
The White Sox led the division wire-to-wire last year. This year, we can already say that won't be the case.
Like I said previously, the tale of the tape will build quickly for the Indians. If they take two of three from the Twins starting Friday, they would begin the season 4-2. Then the Mariners come to town.
If the Indians get off to a fast start, fan interest catches hold, and suddenly, the summer looks a lot more exciting in Cleveland.
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