The Indians, Tigers series was not an easy one to watch. There were many moments that Indians fans will be haunted by for the coming weeks. But even after a tough series, there are a few moments Tribe fans can smile about.
1) Danny Salazar take 2
Danny Salazar took the mound at Progressive Field for the second time this season. In his first outing vs the Blue Jays, Salazar went 6 innings only giving up 2 hits, 1 run and 7 strikeouts.
On Wednesday, he was able to go 7.2 innings with 10 strikeouts. Many will focus on the home run he gave up to Miguel Cabrera. Prior to that 8th inning at bat, Salazar had struck Cabrera 3 times.
2) Ryan Raburn on the mound
Raburn just extended his contract with the Indians adding another two years in Cleveland. The utility player, who's had a strong performance at the plate, stepped up to a different role Thursday night. In the 9th, with the Tribe down 10-2, Francona called Raburn to the mound. He pitched a 1-2-3 inning and even recorded a strike out against Matt Tuiasosopo.
Hear his post game comments.
3) Michael Brantley aka Dr. Smooth
The Indians struggled at the plate these four games, but Michael Brantley was the exception. He stroked at least one hit in every game going 7 for 13 in the series. Brantley, who's hitting .289, also showed his power in the outfield throwing out Torii Hunter after he tried to stretch a double out of a single.
4) Corey Kluber
This one is a little harder to smile about since Corey Kluber is now on the DL with a sprained finger. In game one against the Tigers, the right hander went 7.1 innings without giving up a run. Kluber recorded 6 strikeouts in the performance and brought his ERA down to 3.54.
5) Only 3 games out of the Wild Card
All Indians fans want in the end is to make the playoffs. The Tribe find themselves only three games back in the Wild Card race. With a fairly easy September playing only 7 games with teams over .500, playoffs are still a possibility for the Tribe.
