It is likely that every game the Cleveland Indians play from here on out will be meaningful. However, it is not time for Manager Eric Wedge to play things close to the vest. He should manage the same way he has all season long, but there are some exceptions.
1). Don’t be afraid to play recently recalled Ryan Garko at first base against lefties. The current platoon man there now, Jose Hernandez is in a dreadful slump and should find his playing time decreased. Garko hit well at Class AAA Buffalo and did the same in spring training. Give him a shot to see if you can catch lightning in a bottle against southpaws.
2). Don’t be afraid to use reliever Fernando Cabrera in tight situations. Like in yesterday’s game when a tiring Jake Westbrook giave up a two run single to Shannon Stewart to change a 3-2 lead into a 4-3 deficit. Cabrera has won two big games in the last month out of the pen, and might have been a better choice at that point in the game.
3). Don’t be afraid to give Victor Martinez a rest. Josh Bard has played well in his limited chances, and a fresh Martinez hits better. Playing Bard once a week would not hurt the team, and with Garko available as a third catcher you can pinch hit for the switch hitter earlier in a game if need be.
4). Don’t be afraid to shuffle the line up. I know Jhonny Peralta has flourished in the three hole, but he is slumping and the team can’t afford a guy striking out all the time hitting in front of Travis Hafner and Martinez. Perhaps dropping Peralta to the five spot remedies that problem.
With four games against the Tigers this week, Wedge needs to manage like he has to have at least three wins. Otherwise, the Indians will put themselves in a more difficult position to catch the Yankees and A’s for the Wild Card. The A’s could fall off the pace soon, after losing shortstop Bobby Crosby for the season.
MW
Cleveland Sports Perspective 