Let's get on with the games that count!
The Indians dropped their final game of spring training, losing to the Padres 9-8. Danny Salazar was on the hill for the Tribe, in his final tuneup before the home opener on Friday, which he is scheduled to start. He allowed at least one hit in each of his 5 innings, and gave up a total of 6 runs (5 earned). Most of the damage came in the 3rd, when a pair of walks, a number of hits, and a Nick Swisher error combined to let in 5 runs. Salazar also allowed a leadoff home run to Chase Headley in the 5th. Vinnie Pestano and Scott Atchison also had some trouble. Pestano allowed a 2-run homer, while Atchison gave up 3 straight hits to begin his inning, before getting a double-play ball and a strikeout.
The offense attempted to mount a comeback, starting with Jason Kipnis doing this:
Later on Matt Carson homered twice, making a good final impression on the coaching staff before heading to Triple-A to begin the season.
Salazar not looking especially sharp was the biggest story from the day. It was the first time all spring he threw 5 innings in a game, and I'm not sure he's entirely up to speed yet. Don't be surprised if Terry Francona uses off days here and there to skip a start or two for Danny in the season's first few weeks.
For the most part, it was a successful spring training for the Tribe. Despite their success in the Cactus League, we've all been itching for the real games to begin. After a day off tomorrow, the Indians will kick off their regular season Monday night in Oakland (weather and stadium plumbing permitting). Let's do this!