There have been times this year when a Toronto pitcher, like Mark Hendrickson, has been faced with pitching a good game, or losing his rotation spot. Tonight in Cleveland, Cory Lidle is in the opposite position. If he wants to finish the year with the Jays, he needs to pitch poorly; a good outing will increase his chances of being traded at the deadline. Earlier today on the radio, Mike Wilner suggested that Lidle hasn't had the best time in Toronto and would be happy to leave, so perhaps he's motivated tonight. Given the incredibly close playoff races in both leagues, there would be plenty of interest if Cory appears to be 100% recovered from his left groin strain.
Righty Jake Westbrook is a complete unknown to most of the Jays, having faced them in two relief appearances back in 2001. He's 2-3, 5.54 in seven starts since the break, and is usually gone by the sixth inning. I am disappointed with one aspect of the lineup; Josh Phelps, with 12 RBI in his last 14 games, is on the bench. Kevin Cash is the catcher again, so Greg Myers is the DH.
No play-by-play from me tonight; we're having dinner with friends. We might see a few innings in the background, but I won't be on line. I'm sure everyone is looking forward to more live reports from Eddie and Pete at the Jake.
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