Unfortunately, the Indians are on pace for a season very similar to 1991's team, which lost 105 games.
View full sizeThe Indians' Mark Grudzielanek has not struck out in 44 straight plate appearances, the longest streak in the American League this season.Clubhouse confidential: The Indians, with little starting pitching depth in the high minors, had no interest in former Tigers starter Dontrelle Willis, whom Detroit designated for assignment Saturday. The Tigers during Tuesday's game with the Indians traded Willis to Arizona.
Aaron Laffey was just sent to Class AAA Columbus to get stretched out as a starter. Hector Rondon is expected to be shut down for several more weeks with a right forearm problem. Carlos Carrasco has been inconsistent, and Jeanmar Gomez has struggled.
Josh Tomlin is 5-1 with a 2.23 ERA in 10 games, including seven starts, but his stuff is marginal. He might get to the big leagues with the Tribe, but he'll have to be near perfect to stay.
Bad vibes: After 50 games, the 1991 Indians were 21-29. That team went on to set a franchise record with 105 losses. This year's edition of the Indians is 19-31 after 50 games, including Tuesday night's win. They are on pace to lose 102 games.
Stat of the day: Tribe second baseman Mark Grudzielanek, according to Elias Sports Bureau, has not struck out in 44 straight plate appearances. It's the longest streak in the AL this year. Grudzielanek was 2-for-4 on Tuesday night with one RBI and no strikeouts. He's batting .291.