The Cleveland Indians travel to Texas to take on the Rangers in a four game series that will impact the Wild Card standings.
Yes it is early to worry about Wild Card standings. However this four game series with Rangers could change where the Indians stand in relation to those standings. Entering Monday Cleveland is a half game out of the second Wild Card spot currently held by Texas. Fresh off a sweep of the Tigers, the Tribe will look to keep things rolling against the team they currently trail in the standings.
The return of Sunshine
Monday will make the return of Mike Clevinger. Clevinger has been out since early April after suffering a major injury in just his second start of the season. The fact that Sunshine will be returning to the Indians rotation now will only help their cause. Clevinger has the chance to kick off the series with a much needed win Monday in his first start in over two months.
Plesac, Plutko and Bieber need to pitch well
Cleveland will also send Zach Plesac, Adam Plutko and Shane Bieber to the mound. Plesac has been impressive this season although he did struggle in his last start against Cincinnati. Plutko has won two straight decisions since being lit up by Tampa on May 23rd. Run support has been Plutko’s friend and could continue to be so in launching pad that is Globe Life Park, but it could also be what knocks him out early. Bieber has had a couple of hiccups as of late, but he is more than capable of shutting down even the best offenses.
Oscar Mercado just keeps hitting
Along with usual production of Francisco Lindor and Carlos Santana, the Indians will count on Oscar Mercado to continue his recent success at the plate. In 26 games Mercado is slashing .306/.358/.459/.818 with three home runs and 12 runs driven in. This includes Sunday’s four RBI effort against Detroit. Mercado has cemented himself as a fixture in the Tribe outfield and Cleveland will need him to continue producing at the plate in order to hopefully win this four game series against Texas.
