CLEVELAND – Josh Tomlin will have a couple of big tests when he makes his big-league debut for the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday night.
The 25-year-old will oppose the New York Yankees and Alex Rodriguez, who is hoping to hit his 600th career homer.
Manager Manny Acta doesn't think the right-hander will be fazed by facing the Yankees, who have the best record in the majors at 63-35.
"Those guys are in the league, so you may as well go and pitch against them when it is your turn," Acta said. "Based on what we've seen, Josh keeps his emotions in check. I don't expect him to be overwhelmed.
The Indians purchased Tomlin's contract from Triple-A Columbus, where he had an 8-4 record and 2.68 ERA in 20 games including 17 starts. Tomlin, a 19th-round draft choice out of Texas Tech in 2006, has a minor-league career record of 51-24.
To make room on the major league roster, outfielder Michael Brantley was optioned to Columbus. The Indians also designated for assignment Columbus infielder Wes Hodges, to clear space on Cleveland's 40-man roster.
"The move (on Brantley) was not based upon performance," Acta said, though Brantley has hit only .157 in 26 games over two callups to Cleveland this year. "We are overloaded with outfielders right now and didn't want to get caught short of infielders.
"He will be back."
Acta hopes Hodges, a second-round pick out of Georgia tech in 2006, will remain with the organization.
"It wasn't my call, but it is always a tough one," Acta said. "We like what we have seen and hopefully he'll still be with us."
Hodges, a 25-year-old corner infielder, hit .170 with nine homers and 47 RBI in 94 games for Columbus.
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