Improvement

Last year the Tribe did not pull away in the division, nor did they have the electric hot streak to capture the fans enthusiasm. This year, we are seeing the same type of play over the last 19 games. The Tribe record en over the last 19 games is 11-8. This includes a series win over the Yankees, a series split with the Yankees, and a 2-game sweep at the hand of the Royals.

This is pretty much the way it was last season. This year, we have to overcome the poor offense, remember chicks dig the long ball. The Tribe has made one move this year, the dealing of J-Mike to the Pirates and recalling Ben Francisco. Typical of the Tribe, do moves in baby steps for fear of upsetting the apple cargt.

We all seem to be scratching our heads as to why Marte isn't get his shot...but I am sure they are going to give him more time over the next month or so. What is the down side to playing Marte more often? The upside is having the manueverablity to use Blake as a utility outfielder/infielder.

The key to the Tribes offense though is not Blake, Marte, or Asdrubal. Grady has to become the dynamic guy that he once was. He has to get his average back around .300 and start producing extra base hits. Victor has to drive the ball and start showing some power. Garko has to be more consistent, lets hope his annual 0-25 streak is over and he can pickup where he was last year when he began to show more power. We can't overlook the importance of getting Travis Hafner back on track. Some would like to say Hafner has lost it, I am one who believes that he will find it....to look at others that have struggled mightily in recent memory, look to A-Rod post-season 2006 and Giambi start of season 2006.

Well, Toronto is up next for the Tribe, time to put sexy back in baseball and start a long winning streak to capture the fans emotions as the Celtics end the Cavs season and Browns training camp is still a few months off in the distance.

Peace