Indians Try To Pull Positives From Loss in Spring Training Opener

The 10-0 score would make you think the Cleveland Indians wouldn’t have a whole lot to be positive about, but that’s not how it works in Spring Training. A win is always nice, but there’s always something for a manager to be pleased about. although, hitting wasn’t one of them yesterday.

"“It’s like we were working on pace of play when we were hitting,” Francona cracked. “Hopefully we’ll do better tomorrow.”More from Away Back GoneCleveland Guardians tantalizingly close to locking up AL Central tiebreakersCleveland Guardians: Terry Francona becomes meme in profanity-laced ejectionSay goodbye to defensive shifts and hello to bigger bases, pitch clock in 2023Cleveland Guardians: Shane Bieber second-fastest to 800 strikeouts in major-league historyThe next week will make or break the Cleveland Guardians’ season"

Zach McAllister -battling for that final rotation spot- allowed a run, but overall pitched well in his two innings of work. After a bit of early trouble, he was able to work out of it without any further damage. A good sign for a young man in a battle for a starting spot.

The defense continued its solid play, including a spectacular play by Destin Hood in the outfield to end the fifth inning. Jose Ramirez made a nice play on a chopper by speedster Billy Hamilton at get him at first, while Yan Gomes gunned down Zack Cozart trying to steal second. A key strength of the Indians team from last year looks as if it will carry over just fine this season.

With only four hits, the offense left quite a bit to be desired. Tyler Holt did draw a pair of walks, while Tyler Naquin had a solid at-bat in the fifth that led to a single. Mike Aviles rapped the first hit of the spring in his second at-bat, and made good contact in his first at-bat as well. But today is a new day, and the Tribe will look to warm up the sticks against the reds this afternoon.

The Indians were also missing some notables, as Michael Bourn was out (Scheduled to play today), and Michael Brantley sat out but will play on Thursday. Jason Kipnis is expected to play later this week as well.

Brandon Moss appears to be ahead of schedule, and according to Francona he’ll see action sooner than expected.

"“He’s streaking along,” Francona said. “It’s hard to slow him down. He’s passing every test they give him. He’s coming quick.”"

Moss ran the bases on Monday without any issues, and is ready to get on the field and show the Indians what he can do.

The Tribe and the Reds will meet again today at the Reds facility as they play the second of a three-game series to open Spring Training.