Indians News & Notes: Marlon Byrd builds a 15-year career after nearly losing a leg

Despite the frustration of losing a series to the Twins, it still feels weird to have a day without baseball. Ah well, at least that's behind us now. Today, the Indians start a three game series against the 2008 World Champion Philadelphia Phillies. Fortunately for the Indians, a lot has changed in the past eight years. This could be a good opportunity to finish April on a relatively positive note.

Indians news & notes

Lindor happy to give back with RBI program | Indians.com - Just when it seems like you can't love Francisco Lindor any more for his on-field activities, he goes and does a bunch of great stuff off the field, too. Lindor chose to spend a precious off day by hanging out with some Philly youth as part of the RBI program. What a guy!

Indians outfielder Marlon Byrd: from unable to walk to a 15 year MLB career | Cleveland.com - Marlon Byrd has had a hell of a journey. It's not just the late-career revival, but apparently the guy almost had his leg amputated back in college. There was a chance he wouldn't walk again. After that experience, all of this must seem like a dream come true.

The kid is alright - Naquin impresses in first month | Burning River Baseball - A lot of things had to go wrong for Tyler Naquin to end up as an opening day starter. Michael Brantley had surgery. Then Abraham Almonte was suspended after testing positive for PEDs. Naquin stepped in and has not only met, but exceeded expectations.

Indians' starting pitching is suddenly a concern (video) | Cleveland.com - What was supposed to be the Tribe's greatest strength has now became somewhat of a liability. What are the implications of Carrasco's injuries, and is there enough time to get things right and still compete? Dennis Manoloff discusses.

News from around the league

• Fangraphs thinks the Nationals may have benefitted from an easy schedule thus far in the season
• Bryce Harper would only play in the World Baseball Classic if the Americans have a legit shot to win it all
• Seems like Jonathan Papelbon still hates Bryce, though
• A bunch of hooligans stole a big Royals player statue off a billboard
• What are April's most surprising breakouts? The White Sox's MLB-best excellent record is one :-/
• I'm now going to be boycotting Cracker Jack