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5 Moves The Cleveland Indians Must Make To Contend For a World Series In 2016

By Nick Dudukovich

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Aug 29, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber (28) delivers in the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

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The Indians would like to enter 2016 with eight pitchers because injuries or ineffectiveness almost always ruins someone’s season before it ever gets going. Early injuries to Gavin Floyd and T.J. House set back the Tribe in 2015, as Terry Francona was forced to run out Zach McAllister, Bruce Chen and some other names to fill the fifth starter’s role until Cody Anderson emerged.

Going into 2016, go ahead and pencil in Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Danny Salazar and Trevor Bauer. The fifth spot will be a battle between Cody Anderson and Josh Tomlin.

After that, the Indians hope TJ House can battle back from shoulder problems and be effective. He’s left-handed, and the Indians desperatley need southpaws in their aresnal.

Prospect Mike Clevinger will be one to watch. The Indians acquired the 24-year-old in the trade that sent Vinnie Pestana to the Angels in 2014. The 6-foot-4, 200-pounder right-hander throws a fastball in the 91-96 mph range, and he averages about 93. Clevinger was 9-8 with a 2.73 ERA for Class AA Akron and was promoted to Class AAA Columbus for the Clippers run through the International League playoffs. In brief Triple-A work, Clevinger threw 15 1/3 scoreless innings, while allowing five hits.

Also look for the Indians to kick the tires on a veteran who has something to prove, such as Mat Latos.

The Indians have the staff to contend. The ERA of the starting rotation was 3.94 for 2015 and the staff led the big leagues in strikeouts, with 969. Adding depth to cover up any early setbacks will be impressive for the team to stay in contention.

Next: Make A Trade For A Power Stick

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