Clutch Start Much Needed for Byrd, Team
After two sloppy outings in his return to the Cleveland organization, Paul Byrd needed a good outing. After being spotted a 1-0 lead, though, it looked like he was in for more of the same. Chris Shelton pounded his world leading 9th homerun of the young season in the home half of the second inning on a pitch that got too much of the plate.
Then came the cure for any struggling pitcher. A six run inning. After an afternoon of flailing away at Mike Maroth softballs, the Tribe tattooed Nate Robertson all over Comerica Park. Casey Blake started the fun with his second homer of the season, and Aaron Boone highlighted the inning with a big two run single. He would add another run scoring single in the 7th.
The eruption was much more than a now relaxed Paul Byrd needed. He scattered just four hits over seven innings to notch his second victory. He was in complete control from that point on.
Every starter was involved in the 14-hit attack except for LF Jason Michaels. In his Coco Crisp audition, the first-time starter has managed to score just two runs and knock in one other so far this year. Victor Martinez and Eduardo Perez led the way with three knocks apiece.
The Indians head off to Camden Yards for a three game set against the Orioles. The Indians will face two more southpaws this series, giving Ben Broussard ample time to tune his guitar. The opener tomorrow night will feature Jason Johnson against Bruce Chen.