In his last three games, Cleveland Indians closer Brad Hand has allowed five runs and eight hits in three innings. As the Indians continue to push for the playoffs, is it time to be concerned about Hand's effectiveness?
Before we get there on this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we cover these topics:
- The Indians are coming off their toughest stretch of games this season, winning a series against the Twins, losing a series to the Red Sox and splitting a series with the Yankees. Ryan gives his thoughts on how the team played over the stretch and what we learned about the team, especially when it was without Yasiel Puig in the middle of the batting order.
- Corey Kluber suffered a setback in his latest rehab start, exiting the game after an inning due to an abdominal strain. What does this mean for his comeback? And if Kluber does return to the Indians this season, which starter is at risk of losing his spot in the rotation?
- Carlos Carrasco is also starting to work his way back. We explain that while it's a great story, be hesitant with your expectations for the starter.
- More with Hand: We wondered, do the scars of Indians closers past taint the public opinion of Hand?
- Ryan explains the pitch that Hand has faltered on, and what could be the cause of his recent struggles.
In this edition on Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley wrap up the 2021 season and forecast the possibilities for the Guardians in 2022. They also pay tribute to late longtime Cleveland sports journalist Matt Loede.
On this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland's last home game as the Indians, Shane Bieber's return to the mound and the Akron Rubberducks Double-A Northeast League Championship win.
In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about the return of Shane Bieber for Friday’s game against the White Sox in Chicago. It will be his first time on the mound for Cleveland since June. They also talk about how the front office will shape the roster heading into 2022, James Karinchak’s progress in Columbus, outfielder-turned-pitcher Anthony Gose talking about how he’s “too stupid to quit,” and much more. In the pop culture portion of the podcast, they recap wins and losses from the Emmys.
Ryan and Ashley talk Ryan’s visit to Harry Potter World, and Ryan’s beef is apparently squashed with Daniel Radcliffe. They then discuss the adjustments made by Logan Allen, Emmanuel Clase’s progression, Ryan Larvarnway saving Cleveland from some dubious history and manager Terry Francona’s health situation. They also talk about Zack Plesac’s bad luck being on the opposing side of three no-hitters.
In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Roberto Perez and his progress in Akron, Amed Rosario’s 5-for-5 night, the ups and downs of Logan Allen, James Karinchak and Bradley Zimmer and Ryan’s beef with “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radcliffe.
Note: The next edition of Leading Off will post Sept. 16.
In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about what the recent loss of Tristan McKenzie means for the team going forward. They also give an update on manager Terry Francona’s health, talk about the team’s middle infield and outfield situations, Bobby Bradley’s emergence at first base and the future of Roberto Perez. They close with another “pop culture” corner and give their latest bingeworthy TV picks.
In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland’s extra inning loss to the Twins. Tristan McKenzie flirts with greatness and chats all the way through it, and the team’s starting rotation outlook comes into focus. They also talk about the "Field of Dreams" game between the White Sox and the Yankees.
On this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland’s new lease at Progressive Field and recap the team’s trade deals. They also talk about manager Terry Francona stepping down for the remainder of the 2021 season and their love of the summer olympics.
Show note: The next episode of Leading Off will post Aug. 19.
In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about the Cesar Hernandez trade and how the team’s situation at the trade deadline is more complicated than “buy” or “sell.” They also discuss the possibility of a Jose Ramirez trade and future contract, and how the organization settled on “Guardians” as the new team name.
In this week’s edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk injury updates and what the team needs to do to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot. They discuss the progress of the team’s young pitching rotation, Franmil Reyes’ power and the potential prank war on tap with the Tampa Bay Rays. They close with a fantasy draft of comedian Bo Burnham’s recent Netflix special, “Inside,” and Ashley is not a happy camper.
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