Trevor Bauer looks to continue strong second half against Marlins

Miami Marlins @ Cleveland Indians

Saturday, September 3, 2016. 7:10 PM EST, Progressive Field

TV: STO, MLB.TV (Free Game of the Day)

Radio: WTAM

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Thanks to Wade Davis, the Kansas City Royals failed to beat the Detroit Tigers last night, which means that the Cleveland Indians are still 4.5 games up in the AL Central. Hopefully Trevor Bauer and the Royals can come through today to give the Tribe a little more breathing room in the standings. To do that, Bauer and the Tribe will face off against Jose Fernandez and the Miami Marlins.

RHP Jose Fernandez has been incredible for the Marlins this year as he continues to be one of the best young pitchers in baseball. In 25 starts this season, Fernandez has a sterling 2.79 ERA and a 2.27 FIP, which means that he should be even better than he currently is. Over 154.2 innings pitched, Fernandez has allowed just 48 earned runs and as many walks while striking out a video game-esque 219 batters (good for an ERA+ of 142). His last start, August 29 against the New York Mets, was good (despite his offense giving him no help) as he went 6 innings and only allowed 3 hits and no runs on 4 walks and 6 strikeouts.

Opposing Fernandez is another exciting young pitcher in Trevor Bauer. Bauer has had an up and down season thus far for the Indians, but his most recent stretch of games have been fantastic. Over 152 innings pitched this season, Bauer has a 3.73 ERA and a similar 3.90 FIP. He's allowed 63 earned runs and 58 walks while striking out 135 (good for an ERA+ of 126). His most recent start came on August 29 against the Minnesota Twins where he went 6 shutout innings and allowed only 5 hits and walked 1 while striking out 4.

And now, here's the starting 9 for your Tribe:

LET'S GO TRIBE!!!