No Cliff Dive

As the 2008 All Star Game in the Bronx approaches and the season reaches its mid-season point, I wanted to recognize the Indians most consistent force, Cliff Lee. This 29 year old started the season with questions and doubts about even making the rotation and now this presumably All Star holds an 11-1 record with a paltry 2.34 earned run average after 15 starts. Cliff has been dominant, holding opposing hitters to a .247 batting average against. This 6 foot 3 inch, left-hander has given up 2 or more runs in only three of his starts and has been undeniably the best pitcher in all of baseball in the first half. He has also amassed 90 strikeouts in 103.2 innings with only 16 walks.
This is a sign of the work and dedication that Cliff has put in to improving his game and his control. With all of the injuries and troubles that have faced the Tribe this year, Cliff seems to be unfazed and on a mission to go out and give the Indians a quality start each and every time he takes the hill. When July 15th and the All Star Game takes center stage, I look forward to seeing Cliff Lee representing the Indians on the national stage.








Matt has covered Major League Baseball and the "other two" Pro teams in Cleveland since 1994. He has been on the beat of the Indians in full-time mode since 1996, working for various raido and print networks around the country.