What a time to be a fan of the Cleveland Indians! Riding a franchise-best 15-game winning streak, running away with the American League Central Division, and owners of the best run differential in all of baseball. Things are going so well, that even the shaky health of several players hasn’t seemed like much cause for concern.
Of course, the injuries do matter. Any team wants all of their best players available, and the Indians are no exception. Now, they will face a much bigger challenge than the hapless Chicago White Sox in a Baltimore Orioles team fighting for its playoff life. Currently two games behind the Minnesota Twins for the second American League Wild Card Spot, the Orioles are 71-69 on the season, and have won six of their last ten games. A hungry team like this is exactly the kind of challenge the red-hot Indians need.
Taking the mound for the Tribe is Mike Clevinger. The long-haired right-hander has solidified his spot in the rotation in the second half of this season, forcing manager Terry Francona to go with a six-man rotation at times. Clevinger has been particularly impressive over his last two start, pitching six scoreless innings in each. As he learns to be more efficient with his pitches, Clevinger could become a real force in the middle of the Indians’ rotation.
The Orioles will counter with lefty Wade Miley. It’s hard to believe that this is the same pitcher who made the National League All-Star team during his rookie season the Majors. Miley hasn’t had a winning record since that 2012 season and is currently 8-11 with a 4.91 ERA and monstrous 1.66 WHIP this season. In short, he’s the kind of pitcher the Indians should take advantage of.
Be sure to tune in to the Tribe tonight or stop by Progressive Field at 7:10 as they try to extend their winning streak to a franchise-best 16 games, and be sure to stop by and share your thoughts here at It’s Pronounced Lajaway!