It's been a pretty good stretch by our Tribe, finally making baseball enjoyable to watch again. After today's day off, they'll be heading up to Tom Hamilton's favorite Canadian city for a three-game set against the Blue Jays. Until then, here's what's going on around baseball:
Yesterday's game: Indians 6, Rays 5
Other Indians news
Morgan puts up the T, but just a little one | Cleveland.com - Tony Plush emerged once again as Nyjer Morgan hit his first homer since 2012. Morgan had a huge impact in Sunday's game, making things happen with bat, gloves, and legs. How can you not love this guy?
Axford looking for a quick rebound | Cleveland.com - John Axford is used to disappointment and setbacks, but the anger is always a motivator. The erstwhile Indians closer says the situation reminds him of 2012, and that he just "fell out of his mechanics" a bit during the lead-up to his recent demotion. He did enjoy the Salvador Dali museum in Tampa, though.
Closer by committee offers more questions than answers | Did The Tribe Win Last Night? - Axford's demotion was due, but finding a replacement is a big challenge. There are lots of good candidates in the Tribe 'pen, but none with "bonafide" closer experience.
How about Allen as closer? | It's Pronounced 'Lajaway" - Mike Schreiner over at IPL asks readers about installing Cody Allen as the Tribe's closer.
Brantley having a breakout year | Wahoo's On First - It's not just his "Grown Man Strength" and increased power that makes Michael Brantley so good this year. He also excels at making good contact frequently and using all fields, rendering shifts all but useless.
Chisenhall sees some time at 1B | Indians.com - Lonnie Chisenhall got his first experience at 1B on Saturday's game. He's been practicing there and in LF for a few weeks, and say though he doesn't want to get labeled as a utility player, he's willing to do what it takes to get playing time.
Lindor, Aguilar leading organization in WAR | Indians Baseball Insider - IBI compiles a list of WAR leaders across the Indians minor league system. Not surprisingly, Jesus Aguilar and Francisco Lindor are at the top. Tyler Naquin has made a good showing, though Clint Frazier has struggled a bit so far.
Series preview: Masterson, Dickey headline Tribe vs. Blue Jays | Indians.com - Justin Masterson takes the hill against Jays knuckleballer R.A. Dickey on Tuesday. Big Masty looks to keep the good starter vibes rolling.
Tidbits from around the league
- Twins top prospect Byron Buxton returns to DL after re-injuring his wrist
- Aroldis Chapman's impressive return is a great sign for the Reds
- Tim Hudson is not offended by Yasiel Puig's bat flip
- Mike Moustakas may be demoted to give Royals bullpen flexibility
- Captain Cheeseburger placed on 15-day DL with knee pain
- Tracy McGrady made his debut with the Sugarland Skeeters