Indians news, features and notes
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- Cleveland Indians notebook: Justin Masterson named American League Player of the Week
- Indians: Matchups for upcoming games
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- Indians 6, Mariners 0: Tribe puts Hernandez through hard labor
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Westbrook adds to his weaponry
KANSAS Jake Westbrook is known for his sinking fastball.
When he has it going, ground ball outs are plentiful. But Westbrook has a more varied repertoire this year. He has even dropped his arm down at times in a modified sidearm delivery.
""I try to mix it up as much as possible,'' he said. ""Maybe I don't have as much confidence in it (sinker), as far as location. The pitch is good when you get it down, but I don't know many guys who are effective with it if it's up in the strike zone.''
In coming back from Tommy John surgery, performed in June of 2008, Westbrook has discovered that being able to command his pitches is the biggest hurdle he has to overcome. In trying to expand the weapons he uses, Westbrook has gone to his changeup more than ever before. In fact, it has become something of a swing and miss pitch for him.
But the Indians' poster boy for the changeup is Mitch Talbot, who thinks of it has his best pitch.
""I would say that's his go-to pitch,'' manager Manny Acta said. ""When he gets into a rhythm, he can throw it at any time.''
The Tribe has more alterations in its television schedule. The May 23 game against the Reds, originally slated to be aired by WKYC-TV (Ch. 3) will be broadcast on SportsTime Ohio. The July 10 game against the Rays will be televised by Channel 3 and STO. That game was originally scheduled to be seen on STO exclusively.
