Sometimes, a pitcher gets flustered when his usual magic falters. He may float a curveball that screams back into the night.
Because he is an ace, Shane Bieber managed his inconsistency and avoided such catastrophes. He left the game with the bases loaded but thanks to the bullpen’s assistance he allowed only three runs in 4.1 IP. With the game in such good hands, it felt like a good time for a comeback bet.
Cleveland’s offense did not get the job done. Three different hitters doubled, two sneaky bunts pushed the team closer equalizing, but no one player came through when it mattered.