Craig Kimbrel
Craig Kimbrel was one of the American League’s best closers in 2016. He recorded 31 saves and fanned 83 batters in 53 innings pitched.
In the ALDS, Kimbrel will be in for a tall order.
Should the Red Sox take a lead against the Cleveland Indians, Kimbrel will be tasked with shutting down a team capable of stirring up so walk-off magic, especially on the corner of Carnegie and Ontario.
Cleveland won an astonishing 11 games in their final at bat at home in 2016. It’s an incredible number when you consider home teams play 81 games in their own confines.
And if your Kimbrel, there’s no safe spot to go up against in the order. Jose Ramirez, Tyler Naquin, Brandon Guyer, Francisco Lindor, Jason Kipnis, Carlos Santana, Mike Napoli, Yan Gomes…all of these men helped end games with a Cleveland win.
Next: Tom Hamilton Calls The Indians Clinching The Division
If Kimbrel’s in the game, the Indians will most likely be within striking distance. And with the Houdini Act the Tribe pulls at home, there’s no telling how the 9th inning will play out.