Drew Pomeranz outshines Corey Kluber in possible October preview
By Gio Rivera
Boston Red Sox lefty, Drew Pomeranz outshines former American League Cy Young Award winner.
Boston Red Sox fans have received perhaps a sample sized preview of what could be store for them come playoff time in October.
Cleveland as we all know, eliminated the Red Sox in a three-game sweep back in October to begin their 2016 World Series run.
However in back-to-back nights, Boston’s starters have outperformed the Indians.
Doug Fister gave the Boston Red Sox bullpen a night off on Tuesday, throwing a 1-hitter with the offense knocking out Cleveland’s Carlos Carrasco who allowed 6 earned.
Last night it was Boston’s pleasant surprise of the starting rotation, Drew Pomeranz who captured the spotlight against the 2014 American League Cy Young Award Winner and 2016 nominee, Corey Kluber.
Pomeranz’ night was cut short due to a 103 pitch count under 6 innings.
However despite the length of Pomeranz’ outing, it remained effective not only for his 2017 stats, but to set the tone for the bullpen.
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Kluber in the 8th
Indians Ace, Corey Kluber was also mowing down the Red Sox lineup, totaling 12 strikeouts in his outing. However in the 8th inning came the turning point in a questionable and interesting face off with Red Sox infielder, Eduardo Nunez to say the least.
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Nunez came up short on a powerful hack that appeared to have intent of taking Kluber deep.
Kluber however wasn’t too fond of Nunez’ swing as he then drilled him, risking a scoring position runner in Brock Holt who was on first base.
The question-raising plunk of Nunez came back to haunt Kluber who was knocked out of the game by Mookie Betts who hits .357 in his career against the veteran righty.
Betts singled to put Boston on top 2-0, which lead to a 4-run 9th inning, closing out the victory.
Pomeranz earned his 12th win of the season, the most in his career and the Red Sox are 20 games above .500 for the first time this season.
They sit with a 4 1/2 game lead over the Yankees in the standings as team Ace, Chris Sale will get the nod in the rubber match with a chance to take 3/4 from the Indians.
Next: Boston Red Sox: Ten Greatest Starting Pitchers of All-Time
A series which can very well give both teams some insight into what they may have in store for each other come October.
Until then, Boston’s eyes must remain direct at clinching the American League East.