It always hurts the most when the Cleveland Indians enter a matchup where they are statistically superior to their opponent, yet it turns out to be such a lopsided defeat. Such was the case on Saturday, June 23 when the offensively anemic Houston Astros defeated the Indians 8-1.
Cleveland was riding a four-game winning streak while Houston had won just two of their last 10 games. Ultimately it came down to the fact the Astros were sick of losing and took out their frustrations on the Tribe.
It will be up to Derek Lowe on Sunday to restore balance to the universe and give Cleveland another series victory to add to their collection. With the All-Star break two weeks away, finishing the first half of the season strong is important, especially against less than successful opponents.
The matchup:
The Cleveland Indians will take on the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park located in Houston, Texas on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at 2:05 p.m. EDT.
Derek Lowe (7-5, 4.30 ERA) will take the mound for the Indians facing off against the Astros' J.A. Happ (5-7, 5.15 ERA).
The standings:
Cleveland enters the game with a 37-33 record and in first place in the American League Central. They are 17-15 when playing on the road and have won five of their last 10 games.
Houston comes into the matchup with a 29-42 record and in fifth place in the National League Central. They are 20-17 when playing at home and have won three of their last 10 games.
The series:
The season series is currently stands at 1-1.
Where to watch or listen:
In Cleveland: Television- STO, Radio- WTAM, Indians Radio Network.
Nationwide: Television and Radio via MLB.TV (Television blackouts apply in Cleveland market).
The batting statistic leaders:
Cleveland: Asdrubal Cabrera- .300 batting average, Jason Kipnis- 11 home runs, Jason Kipnis- 41 runs batted in.
Houston: Jose Altuve- .311 batting average, Jed Lowrie- 13 home runs, J.D. Martinez- 39 runs batted in.
More Cleveland Indians Commentary from Paul Rados:
Cleveland Indians at Houston Astros, June 23, 2012: Fan Preview
Mark Shapiro reaches out to Indians' fans in true Town Hall fashion: A fan's reaction
Cleveland Indians at Houston Astros, June 22, 2012: Fan Preview
Cleveland Indians continue to give back through scholarship programs
Cincinnati Reds at Cleveland Indians, June 19, 2012: Fan Preview
Sources:
All statistics provided by MLB.com
Paul Rados is an avid Cleveland Indians fan and a Featured Contributor for the Yahoo! Contributor Network. Follow him on Twitter @PSRados or leave him a message on Facebook.
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