Game 89 open thread: Indians vs. Twins

Boy, I sure have missed baseball, haven’t you? Oh sure, we had a Home Run Derby, and even an All-Star Game, but that’s no substitute for watching the Cleveland Indians play, especially the 2016 version of the Cleveland Indians. It seems like weeks since the Tribe last played.

Fortunately, the drought comes to an end today, as the Indians will soon take on the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. The Twins, of course, are the only team in the AL Central that the Indians are having trouble beating so far this season. Against the Tigers, White Sox, and Royals, the Indians are a combined 24-7; against the Twins, they are a humble 2-4. But of course that’s a small sample size. With 13 games left against the Twins, the Indians have plenty of time to turn things around.

The Indians made a roster move on Thursday, recalling Erik Gonzalez from AAA Columbus and optioning T.J. House. Gonzalez, whose usual position is at shortstop, has been having a fine season, hitting .296/.328/.420 in 81 games. He can play a variety of infield and outfield positions. This move leaves the Indians with a seven-man bullpen.

Pitching for the Tribe on Friday will be Carlos Carrasco. 5-3, ERA of 2.47, this will be Carrasco’s first start against the Twins this season. His opponent is Ervin Santana, 3-7, 4.06 ERA. Santana’s faced the Indians once in 2016, going six innings and getting the win at Progressive Field in mid-May.

Here are tonight’s starting lineups:

Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment below, and play ball!