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Daniel Mengden has been recalled from AAA Nashville to make his season debut in today's game at Progressive Field in Cleveland. Mengden, replacing Kendall Graveman (right shoulder strain, 10 day DL), began his season on the disabled list due to foot surgery. Since his return, however, Mengden has been showing signs of rehab life; his latest start had him tossing seven scoreless innings and striking out 5 with no walks.
Cleveland's right handed hurler Carlos Carrasco will take the bump. Carrasco's last start was another struggle. While he notched a no decision in his last start, he got lucky. He gave up four runs on five hits with four walks and six strikeouts in 6 1/3 against the Reds. He is 4-2 with a 2.93 ERA (formerly 1.86 until his last two starts). His dominant pitch being his four-seam fastball, his speed is not un-hittable (averaging 94), and with little movement of late, has shown he is definitely hittable--especially given the A's recent bat-fests.
Other note: We should see a warm welcome from the Cleveland crowd for returning hero Rajai Davis. Rajai hit a game tying homerun off of Aroldis Chapman in the 8th inning of game 7 in the Fall Classic.
Ultimately the Cubs went on to defeat the Indians in the 10th, but that gift-of-life should see some Ohio fan support this afternoon when he comes to bat.
Flash forward now and here is today's starting lineup.
