Cleveland Indians: Tribe Continue to Put Pressure on in Wild Card Race

Indians hanging on edge of race, fans need to support them down the stretch

The Cleveland Indians dropped a tough one last night to the Toronto Blue Jays–the AL East leader–but their improved second half continues to put the squeeze on the other Wild Card hopefuls in front of them. After the disappointing first half, this run has a feel of “nothing to lose”, and the Indians are playing like it.

The Tribe is 7-3 in their last 10 and only the Minnesota Twins have played better ball (8-2) in that stretch. With seven games left against them (three away, four home), the Indians will be able to put direct pressure on the Twins. The rest of the remaining schedule is favorable, with only one team above .500, and that’s the Kansas City Royals. Favorable does not, however, translate to easy. If the Indians can somehow get in, they will have earned it.

Quality starting pitching has helped lead the charge, as it has all season. After making some moves at the deadline, the offense has come to life. Following a six-game skid towards the end of July, the offense has responded. Since July 29, the Tribe has averaged just under five runs per game (4.91). A 16-12 August have given them a pulse in the Wild Card race. With a majority of their remaining games at home, the Indians will have to get the job done in a place that they haven’t this year. At 29-34, they have a better record on the road at 35-33, while being outscored at home by 16 runs.

Attendance at Progressive Field has been less than stellar in the past, and with football about to begin it doesn’t bode well that it will improve. Currently sitting next to last this season for the worst attendance in baseball–only the Tampa Bay Rays are worse–the Indians are going to need the fans support. With 18 home games left, the fans need to make Progressive an intimidating place to be in September.

Next: Indians September Call-ups