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Read Scott's books about the
Cleveland Indians
And How Their Teams Were Built

Turning A Corner?

by scott longert on 05/18/15

Winning two of three from the Texas Rangers is not a spectacular feat, nevertheless the Indians won a series. Heroic efforts from Jason Kipnis, Michael Brantley and even Nick Swisher helped power the wins. Brantley has been great all along while Kipnis now owns the lead off spot.

The Indians travel to Chicago to play a team that has lately been on an a hot streak. Cleveland needs to win three of four here or at least split. Tonight we have Corey Kluber versus Chris Sale which should set the tone for the series.

It is great to see Yan Gomes doing rehab at Lake County. His bat and skills behind the plate are sorely needed. His return will certainly give the Tribe a boost.

Looking at the rest of the division, it seems everybody in the Kansa City lineup is hitting at least .300. The Tigers have slipped a bit but they are still a major factor. The Twins seem to be coming back to earth. Now is the time for the Indians to make up some of the ground. It starts in Chicago.

Is It Lindor Time?

by scott longert on 05/03/15

The Indians need a spark to get things going. Michael Brantley is hitting well and Ryan Rayburn is doing better than expected.

However there needs to be something more to add some fuel to the fire. Maybe it is time to promote Francisco Lindor to the big leagues. Yes, he is not hitting the ball right now but he is our best prospect and carries with him tremendous talent. If the club does not start to put together some wins soon, it should be time to bring up Lindor.

Nick Swisher is due to join the team any day now, but how much can he really help? Lindor is thirteen years younger and already a great defensive shortstop. His time is now. Do you agree?

The Tigers and Royals

by scott longert on 04/20/15

If two weeks is any indication the American League Central will be a two team race. The Tigers look outstanding while the Royals keep on winning despite some mediocre pitching.

It is no surprise Detroit is hitting everybody, but the pitching has to be somewhat unexpected. If this keeps up the Tribe will be on the outside looking in. I am worried that Michael Brantley's back will be a problem and nobody else in the lineup will pick him up. Brandon Moss needs to start hitting as do the others or it will be a long season.

On the positive side the Indians first three starters are pitching well. They may have to carry the load all season. Your thoughts?

A Week to Forget

by scott longert on 04/13/15

The Tigers came to town and showed why they have won their share of division titles. Great hitting and good pitching will win you a lot of ballgames.

The Indians have not started hitting yet and the pitching has been less than adequate. The 4th & 5th starters did not perform, resulting in some lopsided games. It is telling when Shawn Marcum has been already called up and pitching.

The injury to Yan Gomes is not quite a disaster, but is close. The team will struggle behind the plate until he returns in about two months. Michael Brantley's back issues are scary.

The good news? It is only the second week of the season. The Indians have a lot of time to get things right.

Prediction Time

by scott longert on 04/05/15

Baseball season has arrived and the moment for predictions is here. After a lot of debate I am picking the Indians to win the division. This is not a bold choice as quite a few experts are picking the Tribe.

I base my reasons on the pitching staff that should have an even better year. I don't expect Kluber to win another Cy Young award but he will be one of the top pitchers in the American League. I believe Trevor Bauer has arrived and T. J. House will surprise. Barring any injuries here, (we have already had two)the pitching staff should dominate.

I look for Michael Brantley to lead the hitting with Brandon Moss right behind. Jason Kipnis will help along with Yan Gomes. Most writers are saying Francisco Lindor will be in Cleveland by mid season and I am looking forward to that. The Indians will win ninety games and at least get past the first round of the post-season. What do you think?

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