Roll Tribe: Why an Indians victory is never guaranteed
I’ll admit I’ve been bit by the bug and have been infected by playoff fever. I’ve jumped on the Indians bandwagon as we get ready for playoffs. A couple weeks ago I went to a game at the Jake and had one of the best ball park experiences I’ve had in a long time. Plus, the Tribe won in dramatic fashion - a literal walk off bases loaded walk in the bottom of the 9th. Genuine fun had by all. Before the game we ventured through the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum and then during the late innings the Indians Rock and Roll reared his ugly head, I’m talking about, of course, their beloved closer Joe Borowski. JoeBo, as he’s affectionately called, or perhaps more appropriately, Joe Blow(as in blown save) has been a thorn in the fans’ side all season. Yes, he’s been a “Rock” on this team. He leads the American League in saves with 43, but it’s always an adventure - a “Roll"er coaster ride - if you will. And just when you’d hope he’d put that nonsense behind him as we approach October, he’s blown back to back saves in Seattle by giving up game tying homers. And the Indians still have plenty to play for right now. Home field advantage is still up for grabs and schedule choice is also available, which could be important. Borowski’s blown saves remind us what sort of liability he is, and I can’t help but expect more of the same in the postseason when pressure is much more intense, the micropsope is magnified and the ball is a little heavier. Remember Jose Mesa anyone? Tribe fans have suffered through tremendous heartbreak over the years and I’d hate to see history repeat itself this October. I like the Tribe’s chances as much as any teams to get to the fall classic, but as long as Joe Blow is back there in the bullpen, we’ll never be sure until the World Series is over. Good night and Good luck…
