Indians vs Rangers, Round 2

OK, the last time these two teams meant it did not go very well for the Tribe. The Rangers took 2 of 3 from the Indians about a week ago at the Jake. Nothing really went well for the Indians and Fausto got hurt in the process. Playing on the road against the hot rangers is not my idea of an easy series. But once again, based on the pitching matchups, I'm optimistic that this could be the series that we win.

Tonight: Mathis vs Laffey

Laffey has been pitching lights out this season. He is overshadowed by Cliff's domination and no one seems to be talking about him. He has 1.59 ERA in 6 starts. But sadly, the Indians offense doesn't show up when he starts and he's only 3-3. Mathis went 6 strong innings the last time he faced the Indians giving up only 1 run in 6 innings. The chances of this rookie doing it again is not very likely so I'm feeling confident tonight.

Prediction: Indians 5-1

Tomorrow: Westbrook vs Murray

Westbrook is making his second start since returning from the DL and I am expecting a strong outing. I have no idea what to expect from AJ Murray though. He's making his only second start of the year and his 4th start ever. He's pitched well and was able to beat the Athletics last week. The indians don't really do well against pitchers they're seeing for the first time. So this game is definitely a toss up.

Prediction: 4-3 Indians

Wednesday: Lee vs Ponson

Yes, Sidney Ponson is somehow still pitching. He and Bartolo Colon go to the same buffet's in the offseason and he's looking plump as ever. But somehow, someway, he's pitched himself to a 4-1 record, 3.83 ERA in 8 starts so far. Yes, the same Sidney Ponson who the Twins didn't want last year and the Cardinals who'll take on any one with an arm didn't even want after 2006. He did not face the Indians last week and I'm interested to see how the Indians do against him. But, Cliff is starting, and Cliff is pure awesome. I feel very confident in predicting a victory every time he starts, even though he's been slightly shaky in his last 3 starts.

Prediction: 3-1 Indians

Thursday: Sabathia vs Millwood

Remember when Kevin Millwood used to be good? Oh, yeah, he played for the Indians then. He's extremely inconsistent and has not been on the top of his game lately. Sabathia is back to the Sabathia that we know and love so I see no worries here either. But like always, the game hinges on the Indians offense showing up. I know the pitching will be there, it's that little league offense that's been killing us. They have to turn it around sometime. right?

Prediction: 4-2 Indians