I was juggling between three contests on television last night: Cleveland/Chisox, Giants/Rockies, Warriors/Grizzlies. I thought the Cleveland game was long over after 8 innings but when I saw the score was 8-4 with bases loaded in the 9th I switched the channel in time to see Naylor's slam. I knew Tom Hamilton's call would be a classic, so I searched for the audio replay of that as well (it was). Then it was back to juggling between the three games.
I am REALLY liking the Cleveland line-up and how Francona has them ordered.
Straw is a good lead-off hitter. Works the count well and is fast on the bases.
Kwan is showing a knack for aiming at gaps in the defense, the opposite field, or any contact that moves a runner and/or plates a run. Great player in the second slot.
Rameriz is simply one of the most feared hitters in MLB at the moment. Pitch around him and you get ...
Owen Miller, batting .338, in the clean-up slot.
Josh Naylor bats fifth, also hitting .338.
DH Franmil Reyes finally showing signs of life, probably for being slotted between Naylor and this guy ...
Shortstop Andres Gimenez, batting .331.
Hard to believe this team was shut down on the last road trip and lost seven straight. I've posted earlier in the year the front office must like what they have because they signed Ramirez, Straw and closer Emmanuel Clase to long-term contracts (most the rest of the team is under contract for several years).
Most importantly, this line-up would have to make Cleveland attractive to free agents looking to play for a winner -- exactly the scenario in the mid-1990s (Orel Hershiser, i.e., signed with Cleveland to win a ring). They could use some bullpen help IMO and maybe another starter. We'll know the plan in the next 70 days or so.
Wow. What a game.
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