Slow Start Halts Indians Streak in 4-2 Loss to Orioles; Three Takeaways

CLEVELAND - The Cleveland Indians had their six game winning streak snapped by the Baltimore Orioles 4-2. The loss somewhat spoiled what was supposed to be a special afternoon, as the Indians were honoring HOF Jim Thome.

The Indians struggled from the first pitch to get things going, as Orioles starter Alex Cobb was dealing. Cobb forced Indians hitters into 18 outs of 3 pitches or less. Baltimore's four runs came courtesy of a three run home run off the bat of Jonathan Villar (9) and the first career long ball for Cedric Mullins.

Baltimore and Cleveland meet tomorrow afternoon for the rubber match of the weekend series. The Indians toss out Mike Clevinger (8-7) while the Orioles counter with Yefry Ramirez (1-4.)

Continue on to read more on the Indians 4-2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles.

1) Cobb’s Quick Outing

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Alex Cobb tossed his fourth career complete game Saturday afternoon against a tough Indians lineup.

It was Cobbs first complete game since 2013, when he was a member of the Tampa Bay Rays.

Saturdays game was the shortest of the season for the Indians, Cobb was a big reason why.

Indians hitters were swinging early on in counts which allowed for a low pitch count for Cobb. Getting ahead of hitters early on allowed for Cobb to force the Tribe lineup into 18 outs that were three outs or less.

Cobb had been struggling most of the season as the win is just his fourth of the season. After the game the Orioles club house was very obviously happy for the veteran.

2) Allen's Hit Streak Continues

Indians outfielder Greg Allen has been given more opportunities lately,as the Cleveland outfield continues to battle injuries.

Allen has been making the most of his chances lately, as he extended his career-high hit streak to 11 games with a single in the 6th.

Allen's 11 game hit streak is third longest on the Indians this season only behind All-Stars Michael Brantley (19) and Francisco Lindor (15) have held longer streaks this season.

Not only is Allen's streak impressive in the Cleveland clubhouse, his streak is tied for the longest amongst American League rookies this season.

Allen has always possessed the speed now his bat his catching up, this could serve as a difference maker in the playoffs.

3) Dream Scenario... Wrong outcome

If you could ask Indians manager Terry Francona what part of the order he'd want up in a late game situation, 10 out of 10 times he's probably going to say the top of the lineup.

To remind you the top of the order is one of the best in all of baseball, Francisco Lindor, Jose Ramirez and Michael Brantley are all All-Stars.

So when Francisco Lindor started the 9th inning off with the Indians trailing 4-2, Francona had to feel confident.

Unfortunately Lindor grounded out after getting ahead in the count 3-1.

Brantley's at-bat was quicker as he grounded out on just two pitches.

Jose Ramirez was the Indians last hope but again Alex Cobb was able to quickly work through one of the best hitters in baseball.

Ramirez too grounded out, just like that the dream scenario played out like a nightmare.