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After a disheartening weekend in Baltimore and an off day, the Cleveland Indians find themselves back at Progressive Field for some interleague play against the Washington Nationals. Could be good. Could be bad. It'll definitely be something. The Tribe got lucky during this past weekend due to the poor play by the Tigers and the Royals; because of this, they find themselves entering this new series up 5.5 games in the AL Central. Some help from the Red Sox and the Angels would be much appreciated as the Indians look to start a new win streak. And now, onto the news!
Indians news
Yesterday, the Cubs overpaid for a two month rental of Aroldis Chapman when they handed over four players to the Yankees. I'm not giddy about facing a bolstered Chicago bullpen in October, but I'm even more happy that the Cleveland FO didn't give up significant talent in order to land a relief pitcher (albeit, a very good relief pitcher) for the rest of 2016.
Speaking of relief pitchers, Cody Allen has said that he'd be willing to move out of the traditional "closer" role if it meant helping the team win more games. While I don't see Allen being uprooted by any reliever, I wouldn't mind seeing him pitch in more crucial spots in games as opposed to waiting for a save opportunity that may or may not ever come.
If doling out top talent for a relief pitcher isn't your thing, you may be interested in former Tribe starter Jeanmar Gomez. The Phillies will surely be sellers at the deadline, and Gomez wouldn't cost nearly as much as a Chapman or Miller.
Around the League
- White Sox ace and certified professional tailor Chris Sale has said that he regrets going full-on Edward Scissorhands, but he doesn't regret standing up for what he believes in.
- Johnny Cueto was a bit irked when the Royals decided not to bring him along on their invitation to the White House despite Cueto playing a key role in the Royals' 2015 #PlayTheGameTheRightWay World Series victory.
- The Tigers don't know whether to buy, sell, or do nothing. I'm still advocating giving away all talent, present and future.
- It looks like Prince Fielder will undergo a season ending surgery to repair a herniated disc.
- And finally, it looks like MLB is trying to appeal to the youth demographic by offering free, live streams of out-of-market games via Twitter later this season.