The Cleveland Indians have had solid records across the last eight seasons and have made the postseason five times. However, after being atop the American League Central from 2016 to 2018 and going to the World Series in 2016, the team fell behind the Minnesota Twins in 2019 and 2020.
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Last season, the Indians posted the lowest ERA in the American League (3.29). This was second overall in the majors, right behind the Dodgers. However, Cleveland also ranked 24th in runs scored and 26th in home runs last season. Considering the team traded superstar Francisco Lindor to the Mets, their offensive situation is not looking any better going into 2021. As a result, the lack of offense will probably limit the team’s success in 2021.
Check out Cleveland’s projected starters.
Cleveland Indians Projected Batting Order:
- 2B Cesar Hernandez
- OF Oscar Mercado
- 3B Jose Ramirez
- OF Eddie Rosario
- DH Franmil Reyes
- 1B Josh Naylor
- OF Daniel Johnson
- C Roberto Perez
- SS Amed Rosario
Cleveland Indians Projected Pitching Staff:
- SP1: Shane Bieber
- SP2: Zach Plesac
- SP3: Aaron Civale
- SP4: Triston McKenzie
- SP5: Cal Quantrill
- CL: James Karinchak
Cleveland Indians Team Outlook:
Over the offseason, the Indians made several moves. Undoubtedly, the biggest of these moves was trading superstar Francisco Lindor and starter Carlos ‘Cookie’ Carrasco for a haul from the Mets consisting of shortstops Andes Gimenez and Amed Rosario, outfielder Isaiah Greene and starting pitcher Josh Wolf. As a result of this deal, Cleveland only has two anchored bats in third baseman Jose Ramirez and designated hitter Franmil Reyes.
Additionally, since the Indians did not re-sign Carlos Santana, they looked in a different direction by adding outfielder Eddie Rosario and second baseman Cesar Hernandez to help bolster their offense. Starting pitchers Zach Plesac, Aaron Civale, and Triston McKenzie provide plenty of pitching depth behind ace Shane Bieber. As far as relief pitching goes, the team did not bring back Brad Hand, so the closing job now belongs to reliever James Karinchak.
Yes, Cleveland’s pitching is solid and will keep them in the hunt; however, their success will probably be hindered by their lack of successful offense.
Cleveland Indians Schedule:
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