The first version of the Mark DeRosa-less Indians never stood a chance against state rival Cincinnati today. A sac-fly in the first, off the bat of Victor Martinez, scoring Asdrubal Cabrera was all the Tribe could muster against the Reds.
Micah Owings (5-8) went six strong innings for Cincy, allowing only five hits and one earned run, to go along with four strikeouts. David Huff, one of the few bright spots for the Indians as of late, gave up seven runs (six earned), on nine hits through five innings.
In an extremely non-clutch situation, the Cleveland bullpen managed to pitch four innings while giving up a lone run, off of lefty Rafael Perez. Perez still gave up four hits over two frames.
The loss gives Cincinnati the season series over Cleveland, as the Reds took two of three at both Progressive Field and Great American Ballpark. The Indians only managed a 5-13 record against National League teams this season.
Perhaps the brightest moment of the night for the Indians came when recently activated infielder Asdrubal Cabrera singled and scored in the first inning. Then again, in a season like this, returning to the Indians isn’t what the doctor ordered.
