Tomlin Shines, A-Rod Stuck at 599

What is it with Indians rookie starting pitchers this year?

So far, Mitch Talbot has had a positive experience as the #4 starter in the rotation, as a rookie.

Jeanmar Gomez allowed no earned runs in seven innings in his spot start versus the Detroit Tigers.

And Josh Tomlin, my “sacrificial lamb,” threw up a gem last night against the New York Yankees, allowing a run on three hits, no walks, two strikeouts in seven-plus innings.

It’s probably more of a coincidence than anything else, given the fact that both Gomez and Tomlin have yet to make a second start.

But regardless, I’m not going to get all excited over Tomlin’s debut. I don’t want to take anything away from the kid – he was fantastic. He did everything he was supposed to do and has definitely earned another start. But I’m not getting pumped over this guy, as his stuff isn’t great and he might even get relegated to the bullpen eventually. This may seem like me being sour grapes over him (I mean, I called him a sacrificial lamb and now I’m bashing his stuff) but it’s really not. Not all players called up from the minors are going to be studs. Some are just role players, or worse, roster filler. I’m not sure what Tomlin is yet, but I’m pretty sure he won’t end up being a stud.

But as for last night, Tomlin was a stud in  the Tribe’s 4-1 victory over the Yankees, and the Indians did not give up A-Rod’s 600th home run, meaning that I have only two games to get through in order to win $5 from a friend. The bet is simple – he says an Indian will give up the 600th HR, and I have faith in my boys, for some inexplicable reason, that they will keep A-Rod in the park. Winner gets five bucks.

So here’s hoping Fausto Carmona can help me win five bones. And if you’re looking for a reason to go out to the ballpark, Thursday is one of those fantastic dollar dog nights, so get on that.