Cleveland Indians: Previewing the weekend series against Baltimore

Probable Pitchers

RHP David Hess (BAL) vs. RHP Carlos Carrasco (CLE)

This is David Hess‘ first year in the Majors and needless to say it’s been baaaaad. The Orioles have lost every game he’s appeared in since June except for one. That one game was a one inning bullpen effort. He has one win in a start this year and it came on May 25th against the Rays. Statistically, it’s been a miserable rookie year for Hess with a 6.25 ERA and 1.51 WHIP.

As for Carlos Carrasco, he’s been simply brilliant of late. He’s allowed three runs this month and it came on one swing of the bat in a rainy game. Aside from that it’s been dominance from Cookie. His last outing against the White Sox he struck out nine and didn’t a walk in seven innings of work. He has a 2.00 ERA since returning from the DL.

RHP Alex Cobb (BAL) vs. RHP Adam Plutko (CLE)

It’s safe to assume Alex Cobb probably isn’t enjoying his first year in Baltimore. He’s been a consistent part of their dismal rotation, and I use the word consistent loosely. He’s rocking a 5.31 ERA with 15 losses on the year and only three wins. At two points this year he’s had a streak of five losses or more.

Adam Plutko makes his triumphant return to the rotation, assuming the role of the injured Trevor Bauer. Needless to say, those are some pretty big shoes to fill.  He’s 4-2 on the year, but his shakiness and the consistent play of Shane Bieber caused Plutko to spend time in Triple-A Columbus. In Triple-A he’s been downright dominant. He has a 1.70 ERA with a 0.74 WHIP. He’s done all he can to prove he’s conquered the International League, now he get’s another shot to show that he can handle the MLB.

TBA (BAL) vs. RHP Mike Clevinger (CLE)

Looks like the Orioles forgot to name a starter for Sunday. Oh dear. The Indians will send an actual pitcher to the mound on Sunday, and it’s one that dominated the Orioles earlier this year. Mike Clevinger pitched his first ever complete-game shutout against Baltimore in his first matchup against them. Clevinger is starting to return to form after two solid starts that resulted in wins for the Tribe. He allowed just three runs in his last 12 innings pitched.