Cleveland Indians Activate McAllister, DFA Outman

The Cleveland Indians made a quick roster move this afternoon, activating RHP Zach McAllister from the 15-day DL and designating lefty Josh Outman for assignment in order to make room.

McAllister has recovered fully from his lower back strain and will replace T.J. House in the starting rotation, who was sent back to AAA Columbus. Before heading to the disabled list, McAllister had three of his worst starts of the season, totaling 7.2 innings and allowing 18 runs on 18 hits and five walks. He will get his first opportunity to prove he is back on Thursday against the Angels.

Also announced was the DFA of left handed reliever Josh Outman. In 24.2 innings pitched this season, Outman maintained a 3.28 ERA and had 24 strikeouts. He also walked 16 batters.

Outman struggled with the Oakland Athletics and the Colorado Rockies before being traded to the Cleveland Indians in December for Drew Stubbs. Outman has struggled against right-handed batters, so much so, that he didn’t even find it worthwhile to view video of him facing right-handed batters in preparation for this season.

Despite his struggles, Outman has not been terrible for the Indians this season and even ranks second on the team in wins, with four. That is why the decision to DFA him comes as somewhat of a surprise. Outman’s last appearance with Cleveland will be last night’s 1.1 inning effort against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Outman gave up two runs on two hits, while walking two and striking out one.

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What some are wondering now is if a team does take a chance with Outman, will they allow him to employ his unconventional pitching method his father taught him growing up. (You can check that interesting method out here)

The Indians take on the Angels again tonight at 7:10 PM. Michael Brantley is still not back in the lineup for Cleveland. Below is the expected Indians starting lineup tonight:

Mike Aviles will be in left field tonight in Brantley’s absence.