Game 19 Open Thread: Indians vs. Twins

Well I’m tired of losing on walk-offs already.  The Indians have fought back well in the first two games of this series in Minneapolis, but have lost in heartbreaking fashion both times.  The starter from last nigh’ts game, Cody Anderson (0-1, 7.65) has been optioned to Triple-A.  Anderson had supposedly gotten in better shape over the offseason, and added a few MPHs to his fastball.  That unfortunately has not translated into success.  Kyle Crockett has been added to the MLB roster, adding a second lefty to the bullpen, which has struggled recently.  Now two starters from the beginning of the year are gone with Carrasco on the DL, and Anderson being demoted.

Tonight, the Indians send Josh Tomlin (2-0, 1.54 ERA) to the bump against Twins starter Jose Berrios, who is making his pro debut.  Tomlin has been masterful this year, and looks to continue using his deception to his advantage against a young, powerful lineup.  Brian Dozier and Joe Mauer have had the most at bats against Josh Tomlin, with Dozier not having much success, while Mauer has hit over .430.  Berrios is a highly touted right-hander, who is ranked the #16 prospect in baseball according to MLB.com.

The Indians roll out the same-looking lineup as the night before with the new leadoff man Carlos Santana maintaining that spot.  Michael Brantley, who went hitless in his season debut, bats cleanup.  Tyler Naquin gets the start in center against the righty.  Naquin has been playing well, and is making it tough for the Indians to send him down when Tommy Hunter gets called up.  Here are the rest of the lineups: