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20/20 vision nothing new for Sizemore

Grady Sizemore is a team guy. The three-time All-Star selection doesn't pay attention to individual numbers, especially amidst the team's current struggles.

It's why his 100th career home run, a three-run shot in Saturday's second inning off Twins starter Kevin Slowey, was not on his mind after the 9-6 loss.

Well, that and the fact that he had no idea he'd done it.

When apprised of the milestone after the game, and informed that he was one stolen base away from 100 thefts in his career (only Joe Carter has joined the 100/100 club with the Tribe), Sizemore was genuinely surprised. So was Casey Blake, whose locker was nearby.

"Congratulations, I didn't know that," Blake said, coming over to shake Sizemore's hand.

"I didn't know either, until now," Sizemore said.

Sizemore, 25, is the only player in the American League with 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases on the season. He has reached 20/20 in each of the last four seasons. Sizemore has continued to produce in 2008 even though most of his Indians teammates have struggled through a rough campaign. His peers have noticed, voting him into the 2008 All-Star Game.

Manager Eric Wedge has counted on both Sizemore's production and leadership as the team continues to falter. The Indians have now lost 14 of 18 after consecutive sweeps at the hands of division foes Minnesota and Chicago.

"When you are losing like we are losing, guys are going to get frustrated and lose confidence in their abilities," Sizemore said. "I think we need to keep that confidence high and try to believe in ourselves."

Sizemore's mind isn't currently occupied with individual accomplishments. But still, it will be pretty cool to reach 100 career home runs and stolen bases before his 26th birthday, right?

"Yeah, I guess," Sizemore said. "Obviously it's not something I'm thinking about right now. Enjoy it when you can, appreciate it."

It might be difficult to do during a tough season. After Sunday's 4-3 loss to Minnesota, Cleveland is currently 37-51, riding an eight-game losing streak and sitting in last place in the AL Central despite Sizemore's production. Sizemore entered play Sunday leading the American League with 22 home runs and ranking ninth in stolen bases with 20.

"I approach every day trying to see what I can do to help my team get a win," Sizemore said. "It's not about our personal stats out there, it's trying to help our team win in any way you can. I come here every day with that mentality, and I go from there."

The struggling Indians get no breaks before the All-Star Game, playing two in Detroit before a four-game home series against the AL East-leading Rays immediately preceding the break.

What an amazing guy. Shapiro if you ever let this guy go I will personaly ring your neck. Mr. Green