TORONTO – It was easy to say that Game 3 of the American League Championship Series was a team win for Cleveland, after 17 players appeared in the 4-2 triumph over the Blue Jays on Monday night. To be sure, it was that, and full credit to what is clearly an excellent team.
It’s hard to measure teamwork sometimes in a sport that boils down to individual confrontations between pitcher and hitter. It does exist, though, and the concept of buying into a team concept starts with the manager. More than any in-game tactical moves, a manager’s job is about handling the clubhouse and being prepared for all situations.