Tribe Fans: It's Stretch Time

 

It’s time to change the calendar to September and the Cleveland Indians are just 1-1/2 games out of the American League Wild Card spot.  Tribe fans have longed for the return of meaningful baseball since the last Division winning team in 2001, and this is the year they get their wish.

 

Cleveland has 29 games remaining and I believe it will take more than 90 wins to get into the postseason.  Getting to 90 wins would require a 16-13 record, so obviously winning two of three from here on out will get the Indians 91 or 92 victories.  Of the 29 games left, 14 are versus teams not in the playoff hunt:  Detroit (4), Kansas City (7), and Tampa Bay (3).  Of the remaining 15 games, the Tribe has three against Western Division leading Oakland and six more against the team clinging to post season hopes, the Minnesota Twins.

 

The key to the Indians’ season could be the six games versus the Central Division leading Chicago White Sox.  Cleveland has shown no real ability to beat the Pale Hose this year, going 3-10 against them so far this season.  But, the Sox have been reeling as of late, losing eight games in the standings to the Tribe in the last five weeks.  If Ozzie Guillen’s crew continues to struggle, it could be an advantage for Cleveland.  It also is a factor that the last three games of the year are at Jacobs Field against the Sox.  They should be resting players for the postseason at that point and getting their starting rotation in order.

 

This weekend’s series against Minnesota is crucial for the Twins.  Losing two of three to the Tribe will kill their chances for a four consecutive playoff berth.  The Tribe will see both Brad Radke and Johan Santana in the series, so it will be a difficult chore for Cleveland to win a series it must win.  The Twins have been struggling to score runs, so look for all three games to be nailbiters.

 

Cleveland will be adding Arthur Rhodes and Matt Miller from the disabled list to help strengthen the bullpen.  Bob Howry has handled the additional load excellently, but he will benefit from the help. 

 

Get ready for an exciting month of baseball, Cleveland!   The daily ups and downs that come from a pennant race will seem like you are spending everyday at Cedar Point. 

 

JK