CLEVELAND -- The data shows that Michael Brantley has sliced pitches to the opposite field at a lower rate this year than in the past. Even so, few teams have actually employed a drastic defensive shift against the veteran Indians outfielder.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Brewers went with the numbers and Brantley went the other way, helping ignite the decisive rally in the Tribe's 3-1 victory at Progressive Field. The three-run outburst Brantley helped put in motion in the fifth inning provided all the support required for a 10-strikeout gem by Carlos Carrasco.
"He's a professional hitter," Indians outfielder Rajai Davis said of Brantley.