Cleveland enters this game as losers of its previous two games, both of which were against the Athletics. The Indians’ offense was simply non-existent during those setbacks, as they only managed to punch in a single run in each contest. But may be a new series versus the Rangers could help them regain some confidence at the plate.
Francisco Lindor, the Indians’ leading batter (.312) and hitter (151), has been sizzling throughout August with a triple-slash line of .337/.351/.435. Meanwhile, the same could be said for Mike Napoli, who’s batting .329 with five homers and 14 runs-batted-in this month. He also has a team-high of 29 home runs this season.
Over on the mound, the AL Central leaders are placing their trust on Josh Tomlin (11-7, 4.39). He tossed for 4 2/3 innings versus the Blue Jays on Saturday, during which the veteran right-hander surrendered six earned runs on nine hits and eventually suffered his fourth-consecutive loss. It’s hard to see him put an end to his current slump, as Tomlins is only 1-1 with a 4.34 ERA in three career starts against Texas.
The Indians are 3-7 SU in their previous 10 games on the road. They are also one of the leading favorites at +275 to win the AL Pennant.
The Rangers, on the other hand, are going to be in good hands with Cole Hamels (13-4, 2.80 ERA) stepping on the rubber for them. He’s allowed no more than three runs in seven starts since the All-Star break. That stretch includes his most recent start against the Rays last week, wherein Hamels registered 7 1/3 innings of one-run ball and tallied 10 strikeouts to help his team bring home the win, 6-2.
However, Hamels has played very poorly every time he tosses against the Indians. He is just 0-2 with a 7.41 ERA through three career starts in that matchup. It’s fair to say the lefty’s going to need some serious run support from his fellow teammates tonight.
With that said, look to the pair of Elvis Andrus and Adrian Beltre to lead the charge in doing so. Both have fared well against the Indians, owning career batting averages of .373 and .304, respectively. They’re also 7-of-18 with seven RBIs combined against Cleveland’s starter in Josh Tomlin.
Texas is 7-3 SU in its last 10 home games with Hamels starting. The Rangers, like the Indians, are also pegged at +275 to win the American League crown this season.
