Reaction: House, Indians Struggle in Loss to Tigers

A day after destroying the Tigers 13-1,  starter T.J. House and the Cleveland Indians struggled again offensively, losing to the Detroit Tigers 4-1 despite getting eight hits in today’s game. The offense continues to not carry over previous game’s momentum. One run is not going to cut it.

Though only one game, when multiple games likes this occur in a season, especially divisional ones, a team can give themselves room or fall out of contention very fast.

The Positives

Michael Brantley had a great day at the plate finishing up with four hits. Since getting back into the lineup follow back stiffness issues, Brantley is slowing getting back into the star outfielder we are so accustomed to seeing.

Nick Hagadone struck out all three batters in his one inning of work and Bryan Shaw gave up one hit in is his only inning on the mound.

The Negatives

The pitching staff needs to be on its A game especially if the offense cannot deliver. T.J. House only lasted three innings today and remains winless on the season with a 0-3 record. All three runs House gave up were earned. He did however give up just four hits.

Tigers All Star Miguel Cabrera walked four times this afternoon. He is one of the best hitters in baseball and I can see once or twice giving up a walk but four is disappointing. Yes there is strategy that plays into such scenarios but regardless of who the hitter is, pitchers must go at them. It shows another example of pitching struggles With House and Zach McAllister.

What Is Up Next?

Both teams will be looking to win the series tomorrow, as Carlos Carrasco gets the start in hopes of leading the team to its first series win since the opening series. Carrasco will start opposite Tigers’ lefty Kyle Lobstein.

Next: 4 Indians notes heading into the series