"Manager Eric Wedge doesn't get too upset when his players strike out. When they do so with runners in scoring position, his view changes. The Indians entered Tuesday's game hitting .186 (11-for-59) with runners in scoring position. Of those at-bats, 36 percent (21 of 59) have ended in strikeouts.

"We've struck out way too much with runners in scoring position," said Wedge. "You have to put the ball in play in those situations."

Grady Sizemore, hitting .200 (1-for-5) with runners in scoring position, leads the Tribe with four strikeouts.

Uncle Charlie: The Indians were still talking about the curve Joakim Soria struck out Jhonny Peralta on to end Monday night's game with runners on second and third.

"That buckled my knees from the dugout," said Wedge. "I don't think anyone was expecting that pitch right there."

Stat of the day: The Indians entered Tuesday's game with an 8.24 ERA, last in the AL by almost two runs. The AL average is 4.89."