The Indians sit atop the AL central, but Cleveland fans rightly worry whether this team still has the ability to make a deep postseason run. Injuries to key contributors Michael Brantley, Yan Gomes, Danny Salazar, and Carlos Carrasco mean the Indians will head into the playoffs severely depleted. Despite starting the season with one of the best pitching rotations in the major league, injuries have turned a superb rotation into a questionable one. It is going to be a difficult ride through the playoffs, with an especially important contribution necessary from the remaining members of the starting rotation.
The Tribe hopes to finish the season by clinching the first seed in the American League. There is no easy route through the playoffs this year, but facing the Wild Card winner instead of a division champion would make things easier for the Indians. Starting pitching is the Indians’ biggest uncertainty. Terry Francona will reportedly employ the three man rotation of Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer, and Josh Tomlin, all pitching on limited rest. Bauer must step up and be at the peak of his abilities to command the second spot in the Indians’ rotation, filling in for the injured Carlos Carrasco and Danny Salazar. If Tomlin and Bauer can recapture their form from earlier this season, the Indians will be able to compensate for the losses of Carrasco and Salazar. Mike Clevinger and Zach McAllister will also back up the three man rotation by providing long relief, should the starters struggle. The Indians’ bullpen, led by Cody Allen and Andrew Miller, is one of the best in baseball at holding onto a lead through the home stretch.
The Tribe’s offense is ranked 6th in hits, 3rd in doubles, and 5th in on-base percentage. Despite being solid in the regular season, the offense will have to remain consistent throughout the playoffs. The Indians have been difficult to beat all year when they score first – if the offense can deliver a strong blow at the beginning of games the postseason, the starting pitchers will be able to take the mound with a renewed sense of confidence. A big part of this will hinge on the Indians’ continued ability to manufacture runs through timely hitting and excellent base running. With Abraham Almonte unable to play because of suspension, the Indians’ outfield of Rajai Davis, Lonnie Chisenhall, Tyler Naquin, and newcomes Brandon Guyer and Coco Crisp will need to reak havoc on the bases.
Home field advantage will be key for the Indians – the city and the fans will play a large role in encouraging the Indians to success, just as they did for the Cavaliers this summer. With the fans’ help, this season can be magical.