Monday 3/11 News and Notes

Bastian Tweets:

• Indians DH Mark Reynolds hasn't played since 3/6 due to back stiffness, said Francona. Possible return on Wednesday (after Tuesday off-day).
• Indians have informed RHP Zach McAllister that he has a spot on the rotation. LHP David Huff told he's now competing for bullpen job.
• LF Michael Brantley (coming back from left arm laceration) DHing today, will be back in left field on Monday for Indians.
• Francona said closer Chris Perez (right shoulder strain) will play catch from 60 feet today if he is deemed asymptomatic.
• Indians open season with 13 straight (first 6 in TOR & TB domes) with no off-days. Tribe weighing carrying 13 pitchers on OD roster.
• Asked what he likes about Zach McAllister, Tribe manager Terry Francona said: "EVERYTHING. There's nothing we don't like."

Thoughts:

• Huff leads ST pitchers in 1st strike % and 1-1 strike %, so he might actually have a use in the bullpen.
• Don't rush things, CP.
• Really awesome that we won't have to wait 2 days after the opener for Game 2.
• Francona doesn't even hate McAllister's wardrobe? Or his buttocks?

Other:

Giovanni Soto (pictured) struck out Asdrubal Cabrera and Marco Scutaro in the WBC

TAFKA Fausto Carmona is doing well for the Rays

Full article on McAllister being named the #4 starter