Keys to the game (5/28)

Keys to the game:

1.) Someone needs to step up and lead. When you look at our team, we have a lot of fantastic players. We have a lot of fun personalities. I actually feel like we have a ton of team chemistry. But we are lacking that one consistent leader that both holds accountable and hypes up the team. Last year we were fortunate to have two such leaders (Napoli and Davis). With those two no longer here, that void needs to be filled. The team has been struggling terribly at home this season, going 8 for 13 while playing at Progressive Field. Yesterday was especially frustrating because the stadium was packed. People showed up to cheer for the home team, but there was not much to cheer about. We need someone to step up, take the reigns and lead.

2.) We need a stopper. We are on the verge of being swept by the Kansas City Royals for the first time since 2003. I don't know about you, but that is something I do not want to see. Josh Tomlin takes the mound for Cleveland today with a 2-6 record and a 6.70 ERA. He faced KC once already this season back on May 6th, and pitched well- going 7 strong innings giving up just 1 run on 3 hits. We need him to come out today and shut their offense down. He is also going to need to make sure that he maintains his ability to make adjustments as the game goes on.

3.) Stop leaving runners stranded. We had plenty of opportunity to do damage in yesterday's game, but were once again unable to capitalize. We face Danny Duffy, who is 4-3 with a 2.92 ERA. He seems to be getting better as the season progresses, so our boys will have to be smart at the plate, and have productive at bats. If push comes to shove, work his pitch count up and get into their pen. I know you’re frustrated. I understand that this is not where we were all hoping to find ourselves at this point in the season. But tossing in the towel now would be foolish. So keep pressing forward and work on turning the season around