Double Header Split to Win the Home Opener

It’s finally time for the home opener!

The Cubs aren’t our mortal enemies (that would be the Yankees), but a lot of Cleveland is still seething about Game 7 when we lost the World Series. It’s been a decade, and it would really be nice to take it all the way, but it’s April and there’s no point fussing about that until at least the All Star Break.

Having Hammy do the on field introduction of everyone on the team, from staff to players is always my favorite thing. Hearing him talk up everyone is a delight.

Speaking of voices at the park, the long time PA voice of the Jake, Bob Tayek, was absent as he’s dealing with some serious health issues. The fans noticed before anyone made a public statement, which is peak Guards Fans.

With this series, José Ramírez is now tied for “most games played in a Cleveland uniform” (1619). Tomorrow he’s the leader. I doubt anyone will beat Brooks Robinson’s record (2896), let alone Carl Yastrzemski‘s (3308), but a girl can dream.

Finally you may notice the website got a small face lift to a new theme. I’m in the process of automating more features like the “today’s game” block on the home page (now with rain delay support). If you think there could be something cool added here, give a shout!

Series Summary

The home opener is always tense. It’s pageantry and fun, but nerves are always evident. Arias not catching the can of corn by third is an example of nerves.

DeLauter reminds me of Thome in the best ways. As Hammy noted, we don’t get a lot of 400+ foot home runs to right since the Jim Thome or Travis Hafner days, and it’s nice to see again. While I love it when José hits a dinger, having some of the weight off him is wonderful. Of course, José batting right after CDL is probably part of why he’s getting pitched at.

Game Results

During the LA games, I was telling my wife I can’t really get mad when the opposition makes killer plays. I also feel terrible when someone on the other team gets hurt. Seeing the Cubs lose a starter in the second inning of game one was gutting. You never want to see a pitcher go out for any reason other than they get shelled.

Game 1 (8) – Won

• The Cubs starter was pulled in the middle of Bo’s at-bat, which is never good. It was forearm discomfort, and led to the Cubs burning through three pitchers by the fifth!
• After taking two pitches to the inside of his left kneecap, Martínez is wearing a guard. Smart man.
• Arias should have had that ball, damn it. That was bad communication and I know José is a veteran and you defer to them, but the shortstop has precedence in those plays. If Arias called it, he damn well takes it!
• DeLauter’s walk up song is “Country Roads” by John Denver and the choir was sure singing it. His homer in the 7th was wild! He didn’t even have his arms extended, so it could have gone further.
• Rocchio challenged and was way wrong. I’m working on the stats for this but so far, only Naylor (as catcher) and Kwan should be challenging anything.

Game 2 (9) – Lost

• There’s something about the Cubs and rain delays… we got a double header!
• Cecconi threw 6 innings of scoreless baseball and was on fire. Sadly the pen gave up a walk which turned into a run.
• While CJ Kayfus got his first hit, which turned into bases loaded (walked José and Manzardo), Naylor popped out, leaving them loaded in our one and only chance to score.

Game 3 (10) – Won

• After fifteen innings without a run scored, Kayfus and DeLauter delivered. It was a rough watch before then, and I’m wondering if José needs to unlearn some bad habits because he has protection now.
• Hedges is two for two with ABS challenges and is having himself a good start to the season behind and at the plate.
• Kayfus finally got his first home run.
• Pretty sure Carl Willis has some things to work on with Cade Smith.