Cleveland Indians: 4-point checklist for the month of August

Cleveland Indians 4-point checklist for the month of August

The Cleveland Indians managed to putter through the month of July and came out just barely above .500. The month was known to be a huge test for the organization and the string of injuries that carried through the month didn’t help the cause. However, the team still made it through with a fighting chance at the postseason.

Now, moving pieces at the deadline the way the Tribe did, seeing the end of Cesar Hernandez and Eddie Rosario‘s careers in Cleveland, it would seem like this team is looking beyond 2021 at the future. Albeit an uphill climb, Cleveland is far from out of the running and a decently productive August could keep them in the mix.

Even if the team falls out of contention, there’s other things to play for. With such a young roster, there’s a lot of intrigue about getting more players playing time before the end of the season to get ready for the 2022 campaign.

Before we start looking too far ahead, though, we need to focus on what’s in front of us and that’s August. The upcoming month could either finish what July started in breaking the Tribe’s spirit for the season, or it could serve as the kickstart for the club’s postseason hopes. Regardless of the route the month takes, these four things need to be at the forefront of August.

Cleveland Indians need to be 100% healthy

Both Shane Bieber and Aaron Civale were placed on the 60-day injured list recently, which really didn’t change their timelines. However, both could potentially be back in the next few weeks which would go a long way for the club.

Cleveland has attempted to piece together a starting rotation since the injuries, but the need for the true starters to return is near dire. There’s starting to be more consistency amongst the prospects, specifically Cal Quantrill, but getting Bieber and Civale back immediately takes this group to a whole new level.

If Bieber and Civale come back when the team is still in contention for a Wild Card spot, then the outlook for the rest of the season completely shifts. If the club can keep their head above water until then, they having a standing chance.

If not, then we get an early glance at what the rotation could be next season. A healthy Big Three, plus an open audition for the final two sports would be a huge plus for the organization, especially considering the positive outlook already present for next season.