Player of the Game
Justin Masterson dominated the Yankees for his 7th ‘Player of the Game’, although at this point no one should be surprised when he dominates anyone. Masterson earned a season high 9.58 ‘POG’ points, good for the third highest score of the season, behind Asdrubal Cabrera and Carlos Carrasco. Over 8 innings Masterson struck out 6 and only allowed 3 hits. He also pitched a shut out for the 8 innings he was in the game and lowered his ERA to 2.66. This now places him at 8th in the American League in ERA among starters.
Feathers Up
Matt LaPorta returned to the Indians lineup right on schedule and rapped out two singles in his first game back. Tonight LaPorta was hitting 8th, but it is hard to say enough about how much his bat will help the lineup. Even though he will be replacing Carlos Santana at first, he will actually be replacing Lou Marson in the lineup and at this point in time in the season, Marson is undoubtedly the worst offensive player of the team.
In other injury news, Asdrubal Cabrera was able to start the night after twisting his ankle on a defensive play at short stop. This is fantastic news as the Indians don’t have a single suitable replacement defensively for Cabrera and he has been the best offensive player on the Tribe as well.
Feathers Down
Vinnie Pestano came in for a non-save situation in the 9th and turned it into a save situation. He was blown up for 3 hits and 3 runs allowed without getting a single out. Chris Perez came into the game and helped him out, earning the save. This is his third let down in his last 5 games although almost every other appearance has been perfect. Before Pestano came in Justin Masterson had been throwing a three hit shutout.
Final Score: Cleveland Indians 5 – New York Yankees 3 (and good riddance)
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