Series Review: Indians Got Back on Track Against Padres

Apr 9, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Trevor Bauer (47) delivers in the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Padres Series Helped Indians Right the Ship

Even though the Indians lost to the White Sox 7-3 on Thursday night, there were still some positive steps made during their previous series against the Padres. A lot of positive steps if we’re being honest. Admittedly, there were also a few negatives to take away from that series as well, but not many. What were these positives and negatives of which I speak? Allow me to lay them all out for you.

The Good:

• Both Corey Kluber and Zach McAllister pitched great in their starts. Both pitchers pitched deep into the game and limited what the Padres were able to do offensively. Great starts by both of them and an even better job of bouncing back after lackluster starts to begin the 2014 season.
• Trevor Friggin’ Bauer. After struggling last season with control issues, he retooled his delivery this winter. Early returns during spring training were a bit lackluster, but in his first start of the season, Bauer was fantastic. He struck out a career high 8 batters and looked like the top prospect he was originally thought to be.
• David Murphy‘s bat came to life, continuing a hot streak that began with the Twins.Fans were beginning to turn on Murphy, but this past week proves he has something left in the tank.
• John Axford is four for four in saves. Regardless of your view on the importance of closers, it’s hard to argue that Axford hasn’t been great for the Indians.
• Lonnie Chisenhall continues to hit. That’s a big deal, especially with how Chisenhall started out last season. If he continues to hit, he will eventually push the issue for more playing time.