Series preview between Indians, Tampa Bay Rays

Hey look at that, the Indians might just have a decent shot at playing three games in a row.

The Indians enter this midweek series against the Tampa Bay Rays 2-2-3—two wins, two losses and three postponements. The first postponement, on Opening Day, was played the next day. The second, also against the Boston Red Sox, has yet to have a makeup date determined. The third, Sunday’s game against the Chicago White Sox, will be made up as part of a traditional doubleheader on May 23.

Thankfully, for scheduling purposes, the Indians now travel to Tampa Bay (2-4), owners of a roof.

Because of the postponements, Josh Tomlin will be skipped in the rotation and pitch next weekend against the New York Mets (weather permitting, of course, though it’s supposed to reach into the 50s or 60s by then in Cleveland). Corey Kluber (0-1, 6.75 ERA) will take the mound Tuesday night against talented but often injured Matt Moore (0-0, 5.40 ERA). Moore, a lefty, means Rajai Davis will be in center field and Jose Ramirez will man left field.

Wednesday’s game will see Carlos Carrasco (0-0, 7.20 ERA) face off against another lefty, Drew Smyly (0-1, 6.75 ERA), before Danny Salazar (1-0, 1.69 ERA) takes the mound for a day game against Rays ace Chris Archer (0-2, 7.20 ERA).

The Indians went 5-2 against the Rays last season. This is also where Carrasco nearly pulled off a no-hitter last year, had it not been for Joey Butler, now with the Indians at Triple-A.

Due to the way the pitching matchups worked out, the Indians don’t have as much of a need to activate Lonnie Chisenhall off the 15-day disabled list, though that is likely to happen on Thursday or Friday when the team returns home, barring something unforeseen.

Other notes: On Tuesday right-handed pitcher Josh Martin, a Rule 5 draft selection by the San Diego Padres, was returned to the Indians. Martin will be assigned to Triple-A Columbus.

In the outfield, Chisenhall and left fielder Michael Brantley will each be making a rehab appearance for Triple-A Columbus Tuesday night. It’s Brantley’s first game action in about three weeks.