Last night’s contest was a very tough loss for the Indians, who added a run in the third inning, for the game’s only score over the first 8 1/2 innings. They just could not hold on as Brad Hand allowed Justin Smoak to crush a long ball right off the bat in the bottom of the ninth. Hand and yesterday’s starter, Trevor Bauer, are both on the market despite the team’s recent success but continue to do their job. Bauer, much more effectively. They could have pulled within two games of the Twins with a win.
Toronto, on the other hand, has continued to surprise everybody. They are still 25 games under .500, but they are playing spoiler as the trade deadline approaches. Charlie Montoyo is not going to be lauded by anybody for how the team has performed in his first season, but the fact of the matter is that with an effort like the one they gave last night, it shows that they want to keep working hard.
The moneyline for the Indians is -139, while it is +123 for the Blue Jays. The over/under is set at 8.5 runs.
Indians Have Been Surging
Despite the loss last night, Terry Francona’s team has been tremendous of late, winning just about every game. They are doing this without the services of Carlos Carrasco and Corey Kluber and have been making zero excuses. Their slow start has long been forgotten as the wins have continued to come in. Carlos Santana is leading the way with 21 long balls and 54 RBI, while Jose Ramirez has had his worst statistical year to this point in the season so far, batting just .235 with 47 RBI. Pitching is their strength, both the starters and the bullpen.
They will send Shane Bieber to the mound for his 21st start (22nd appearance) tonight. He has posted a 9-3 record with a 3.69 ERA in 124 1/3 innings. He has struck out 156 batters while walking 28.
Blue Jays Try To Find Continuity
After last night’s win, they will be looking to turn this win into a little winning streak. They have had their struggles this year, but it was great to see Justin Smoak deliver in both the ninth and 10th innings. Freddy Galvis has been the leading run producer for the team this year, proving to be a great addition from the Phillies. The key for the team the rest of the year though has to be the continued improvement of Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Cavan Biggio, sons of the legends.
Marcus Stroman will take the hill for his 21st start, and perhaps one of his last in Toronto. He has gone 6-10 with a 3.06 ERA in 118 2/3 innings of work. He has struck out 93 while walking 34.
Indians Bounce Back With A Win
Make sure you pick Cleveland because Shane Bieber is about to go off! They will come away victorious in this contest.
Free Pick: CLE -139
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