Grady Sizemore’s return, coupled with solid pitching from rookie David Huff, enabled the Indians to record a victory against the Pirates on Tuesday night…with little help from the bullpen once again.
Despite a 5-0 lead headed into the ninth, Matt Herges and Kerry Wood combined to give up five hits, two walks, and four runs. For a change, the comeback by the opposition fell short, allowing the Indians to end their six game skid.
Huff (3-2) was brilliant, allowing only four hits over eight scoreless innings…before the near disaster in the ninth. Huff recorded his third win in his last four starts. Sizemore opened up the scoring for Cleveland with a two-run triple in the third. Later in the inning, Jhonny Peralta singled in two more runs. Peralta later added a solo home run in the sixth inning.
The seemingly safe lead was in jeopardy after a Matt Herges mini-meltdown, and the all too common…Kerry Wood batting practice session.
Grady Sizemore warming up before his return to the diamond after a stint on the DL.
One can only wonder what runs through Eric Wedge’s mind these days when the starter is pulled. One can also wonder how many days Wedge has left to right the ship before the plug is pulled on his managing tenure, and probably this season.
