Written by Rich Swerbinsky

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Boone, Westbrook Lead Tribe To 8-2 Win

Is there such a thing as a big win when you still have 160 games remaining in the regular season?

The more rational and sane Indians fan would likely say no.

I say yes.

Given the Indians start last season, and their lack of success a year ago against the world champion White Sox, this one sure felt good. Behind 6 1/3 strong innings from Jake Westbrook, and a 4-5, 4 RBI performance from Aaron Boone, the Indians dominated the Pale Hoes from start to finish to even their record at 1-1 on the young season.

Boone, who got off to a famously miserable start to last season, has charged out of the gates to begin his second season with the Indians. Through just two games, Boone has five hits, after registering just a total of nine hits all last April. Boone singled in Ronnie Belliard in the 4th inning to give the Indians a 2-0 advantage, then doubled in two more runs in the fifth to run the Tribe lead to 7-1. He then added insult to injury with a solo home run off White Sox reliever Neal Cotts, scoring the Indians final run of the afternoon. All four of Boone’s RBI’s came with two outs, and Boone also stole a base and plowed White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski on a play at the plate.

Westbrook, who failed to win a game last April, and was 0-5 versus the White Sox last season, was in command from the outset. Outside of a fourth inning solo home run he surrendered to Benedict Thome, Westbrook was very effective, allowing just six hits and one walk in 6 1/3 innings. Jake’s sinker was crisp throughout, as he struck out four White Sox batters and induced ten ground ball outs … coasting to an easy win as the offense broke open a 1-0 game with three more runs in both the 4th and 5th innings.

Rafael Betancourt and new addition Guillermo Mota came in and slammed the door, combining to pitch 2 2/3 innings of perfect baseball to secure the Indians first win of the season.

Also contributing offensively for the Indians were Victor Martinez, who slammed a solo shot in the 3rd to give the Indians a 1-0 lead, and Casey Blake who reached base all five times he came to bat.

The Indians and White Sox conclude their season opening three game set Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 PM. The Indians then have a day off before hosting the Twins Friday afternoon at 3:00 PM in their home opener.