In the rubber match of their series with the Cleveland Indians, the Arizona Diamondbacks didn't look ready to play. The first few innings were some of the worst baseball we've seen from this team in a long time. The Snakes recovered their composure but were chasing the game the rest of the way and lost 6-2 to the Tribe.
Zach Duke started things off with nine hits (all singles) in the first three innings. He was quickly down 4-0 with Micah Owning warming in the pen before he managed to go five innings which was no small accomplishment given the start. Behind Duke, the defense was horrible.
While no errors were recorded, there were numerous examples of sloppy play. Twice, Kelly Johnson dropped the ball on the exchanged and failed to turn a double play. Ryan Roberts misplayed a hard hit ball off his glove and right into his face for a painful reminded of his mistake. Justin Upton once again overthrew the cut-off man with an ill advised throw to the plate that allowed the runner to advance to second.
The bullpen allowed two runs over two innings with David Hernandez and newly-signed Yhency Brazoban responsible. The pitching staff overall gave up 15 hits in the game but the Tribe also managed to leave 15 runners on base.
Offensively, all the D-backs could muster were solo home runs from Justin Upton and Stephen Drew.
The D-backs have a day off Thursday and then start a 10-game road trip before the All-Star break. They aren't back in Phoenix until July 15.