Reds vs. Indians: Pitching preview, prediction, and more

The Indians’ pitching staff has been excellent to begin the season.

Entering play Friday, the Cleveland Indians sit near the top of the American League with an outstanding 2.91 team-ERA. Additionally, the 69 hits Cleveland hurlers have allowed are the fewest among clubs on the junior circuit.

Whether they’re facing left or right-handed batters, the Tribe’s pitching staff have had their way. Beginning play yesterday, lefties were slashing a paltry .175/.274/.282, while right-handers were not much better, sporting an anemic .185/.264/.321 slash line.

Through their first dozen games, Cleveland starters are 6-4 and have held opponents to a .188 batting average. Unfortunately for their opponents, it gets even more challenging when manager Terry Francona signals to the bullpen.

The Indians’ bullpen has allowed just three homers in 35.2 innings while recording 39 strikeouts. Only two Cleveland relievers, Trevor Stephan and Nick Wittgren have allowed more than one earned run this season. That is the definition of a shutdown bullpen.

When you trade a hitter of Francisco Lindor’s caliber, you know the offense is going to take a step back. However, I’m sure the Indians’ faithful didn’t expect this sort of freefall. Heading into play yesterday, the Tribe were last in the AL with a .178 batting average and a .277 on-base percentage.

Adding insult to injury, Cleveland was no-hit Wednesday by Chicago’s Carlos Rodon. Only a Roberto Perez hit by pitch with one out in the top of the 9th inning prevented a perfect game from being tossed.

Left-fielder Eddie Rosario is the only Indians regular hitting .250 or above. Despite whiffing an astounding 14 times yesterday against White Sox pitching, the Indians’ 99 punchouts are the second-fewest in the American League.