DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: AL Central—Perez to the DL

Cleveland Indians

Chris Perez (RHP, CLE) has been placed on the DL with soreness in his right shoulder. Manager Terry Francona has said that Vinnie Pestano (RHP, CLE) will take over ninth inning duties. But the situation may not be as straightforward as it seems.

Perez's shoulder bothered him in spring training enough to shut him down for several weeks prior to Opening Day. The current injury may result in a significant DL stint. Until the last few weeks the promotion of Pestano to closer was an easy choice. He was outstanding in both 2011 and 2012 in a set-up role, posting Doms of 12.2 and 9.8 with Cmds of 3.5 and 3.2, supporting ERAs of 2.32 and 2.57. However, the Pestano of 2013 has not been the Pestano of 2011-2012. Although the...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

First base in Miami has been a hard position to rule for years, but a few players are vying for the crown. Plus: Riley in ATL; RF at NYM; CF in PHI; Littell in WAS; more.
Mar 17 2026 3:07am
Carson Williams has been staking his claim to the starting shortstop job for Tampa Bay, plus more from around the AL East as camps wind down.
Mar 17 2026 3:05am
NL West rotations are mostly set, but the rosters still have plenty of room for shuffling during the spring's remaining weeks.
Mar 14 2026 3:04am
Shane Drohan may be the most intriguing piece in the return for Caleb Durbin.
Mar 13 2026 3:05am
Top Twins prospects Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez will start 2026 at Triple-A, but seem likely to get a call-up at some point this season. Plus, saves in CHW, the Guardians' middle infield, an unknown Tiger, and Starling Marte and Lane Thomas in KC.
Mar 12 2026 3:05am

Tools