CLEVELAND, Ohio – Maybe I’m so happy that baseball is back, I’m in denial.
I am denying the impact COVID-19 can have in terms of prematurely ending the Major League Baseball 60 game season.
I’m denying how the Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox have improved their rosters to make life more difficult for Indians in the American League Central Division.
I’m denying about the Tribe’s bullpen.
Actually, at that last point, I’m not.
The bullpen worries me. The bullpen is the only part of this team that could prevent the Indians from making the playoffs. And the 60 game season saves Indians from having too much time to discover the best relief roles in the bullpen.
The Indians need Brad Hand to return to his All-Star form. If that happens, they can assemble the rest of the bullpen. You built it from the end … from the ninth inning.
Some other quick thoughts on the tribe:
Feeling better about: The initial rotation. There is depth. There is talent There is Shane Bieber, who could compete for the Cy Young award.
Wondering about: Mike Clevinger, just in terms of staying healthy. I also know that Carlos Carrasco is still developing resistance. I wonder if Carrasco could help out in the bullpen.
Feeling good about: Francisco Lindor, Carlos Santana and José Ramírez. I look forward to great years of all three.
Still knowing: Franmil Reyes as a player. Acquired from the Padres in late July, Reyes hit 37 home runs last season. He started fast with 19 HR and 31 RBI in his first 60 games of the 2019 season. The tribe would love to see a repeat in 2020.
Waiting for what: Bradley Zimmer and Tyler Naquin can stay healthy. Both gardeners can make a big difference.
Not expecting much from: Domingo Santana Didn’t show much at the plate in spring training and summer camp. He is a sad gardener. That said, he hit 12 HR and had 42 RBIs in his first 60 games for Seattle last season. Indians would love to repeat those numbers.
Have confidence in: Manager Terry Francona and his coaching staff find ways to keep Indians in check and creatively use the roster.
Forced to make a prediction: The Indians finish 37-23, make the playoffs but don’t make it to the World Series.
RECENT TERRY PLUTO COLUMNS
Hi Terry, who is your favorite Tribe radio station?
Terry’s Talkin ‘Tribe, what about the bullpen?
Are they finally getting it right, or is it fool’s gold? Terry’s Talkin ‘Browns
Myles Garrett signing great for him, huge for the Browns
Will Odell Beckham Jr. fit into the Browns’ offense?
If the Indians change the name, it probably won’t until 2022
Do you want to be changed? How did it work for Browns & Duke Johnson?
Indian name change? I don’t like it … but I get it
Hi Terry, how about the Cleveland Colavitos?
Inside Tribe’s decision to consider name change
Terry’s Talkin ‘Browns: Myles Garrett’s big payday.
Terry’s Talkin ‘Tribe: Are you ready for the 60 game sprint?
David Njoku wants to be changed? You got to be kidding
Many baseball fans are angry and Terry Francona understands why
Think (and cry) about minor league baseball
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New Indian face masks for sale: This is where you can buy Cleveland Indians-themed facial liners for coronavirus protection, including a single mask ($ 14.99) and a 3-pack ($ 24.99). All MLB proceeds donated to charities.
