Season in Review: August

After a slump that lasted through June and July, the Indians looked more like the team that had stormed out of the gates to start the year in August. They also got a preview of what Jason Kipnis will provide to the lineup for years to come. Playing in just 11 games, Kipnis made his presenence felt with five home runs, 13 runs scored and had an OPS of 1.151 while showing flashes of defensive greatness at second base.

The Indians were also helped by trade deadline acquisition Kosuke Fukudome and early season phenom Jack Hannahan. Hannahan, who isn’t known for his skills at the plate, had come back down to earth after a red-hot April. But he heated up again in August, hitting .420 with a 1.151 OPS. After taking two of three from the Tigers early in the month, the Tribe had positioned themselves nicely to reclaim the top spot in the American League—at least, until the Tigers came back with a sweep.

Record: 15-13

Offensive MVP: Carlos Santana he sputtered a little bit early on, but in August he notched an .828 OPS and slugged six homers—his best monthly total to date—with eight doubles and 17 RBI.

Starting Pitchers

Lowest ERA: Fausto Carmona (3.18)

Most Wins Recorded: Justin Masterson (2-1, 6GS), Ubaldo Jimenez (2-1, 6GS)

Best FIP: Masterson (-0.02)

The Jimenez deal netted the Tribe a pitcher who just last year was one of the best in baseball. He posted fairly lackluster numbers with the Indians in August: he went 2-1 in six starts, and his ERA was well over five. Still, he showed signs that he could be a dominant force in the Indians rotation—his fastball was in the high 90’s when he made his debut in Texas.

Relief Pitchers

Lowest ERA: Vinnie Pestano (0.66)

Best WHIP: Tony Sipp (0.87)

Best K/9 Rate: Pestano (9.22)

Best K/BB Ratio: Chad Durbin (7.5)

The bullpen continued to be solid in August. Pestano was mowing down batters and Sipp proved he could be a viable option in the late innings as well. Chris Perez faltered in two opportunities to close it out for the Tribe in the late innings, but he still converted eight saves.

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