Recap
Box Score
Win Probability Graph @ Fangraphs
Highest WPA:
Grady Sizemore .278
Fausto Carmona .274
Trot Nixon .128
Lowest WPA:
Ryan Garko -.114
Casey Blake -.087
Jhonny Peralta -.083
Fausto was tremendous again, even though the defense behind him was not. It's a credit to him that he shrugged those little misfortunes off and pitched seven solid innings. The game was in doubt for much of his outing, hence his high WPA. Only one the Orioles' seven hits were for extra bases, and several singles were of the infield variety.
The Indians scored 9 runs against the Baltimore bullpen. The outburst included Travis Hafner's first grand slam of the season, and a Jhonny Peralta solo shot in the ninth. The duo remain tied for the team lead in home runs with seven. Trot Nixon collected three singles today, making him six for his last eight. Stay healthy, Trot.
The Indians made a couple roster moves today, one of which was a bit surprising:
Designated RHP Jason Davis for Assignment
This move had nothing to do with 25-man or even 40-man roster spots; instead it signified the Indians' organization throwing up its hands at a pitcher who simply could not harness his physical tools. 2007 marked Davis' sixth season with the Indians, and after multiple sessions in the minors and a myriad of roles, he simply wasn't having success in the majors. Because of his physical assets, he won't have to go to the minors as long as he's healthy; another pitching coach, observing him from afar, will see potential and a correctable flaw.
Recalled RHP Edward Mujica from Buffalo (AAA)
Replacing Davis on the roster is a guy who has found his niche; In 2004, the Indians moved Edward to the bullpen, and he's been outstanding ever since. He's held AAA hitters to a .186/.234/.256 line, and that's with a .276 BABIP. There's very little not to like about him: he misses bats, doesn't miss the strike zone, and doesn't seem to mind high-leverage situations.
Placed RHP Jake Westbrook on the 15-Day Disabled List (oblique)
Recalled RHP Fausto Carmona from Buffalo (AAA)
Jake's going to be on the shelf anywhere from 3-5 weeks. That should be enough time for the Indians to see if Fausto Carmona can sustain his early 2007 success. If he sticks, and Westbrook returns on time, they'll have an interesting decision to make.
Next Up: The Indians head west. Lee vs. Santana, 10:05 PM.