Byrd Dogged: Angels 9 Indians 5

The Cleveland Indians got as close as 6-4 in the sixth before the Angels delivered a knock out three run seventh, downing the Indians 9-5 on Wednesday afternoon in California. 

While it appeared they might climb back into the contest, it was really over early.  Paul Byrd, the Indians starter, got knocked out of the game after three, surrendering a grand slam to Mike Napoli in the second, and allowing another two to cross the plate in the third, making his pitching line read five hits, six runs, two walks, two strikeouts and two homers and bringing his ERA for the year to a whopping 11.05.  YIKES!!  The good news is, it can only come down from there. 

The Angels delivered two grand slams in three days while playing the Indians, great news if you’re an Angels fan, somewhat disgusting news for a Clevelander.  Both games the Grand slams were giving up were losses for the Indians. 

While Cleveland’s offense generated five runs on twelve hits, it just wasn’t enough to overcome a six run early deficit. 

Johnny Peralta led the Tribe with three hits in five at bats, with Shoppach bringing up a close second with two hits. 

Vladamir Guererro and Anderson led the way for Los Angeles in the offensive department with homeruns. 

While Byrd was horrible as a starter, the relievers for the Indians weren’t any better.  Julio gave up two hits in two innings, Kobayashi surrendered two runs in one inning of work, and Lewis gave up one in his two relief innings. 

Mosely of the Angels registered the win, going six and giving up four runs on nine hits.  Oliver earned a hold.  Shields and Speier closed out the game in relief. 

Cleveland gets Thursday off before playing the Oakland A’s three games at home starting Friday at 7:05.