CLEVELAND -- Trevor Bauer's last start for the Indians was just a fill-in appearance due to a doubleheader. This time though it is more than a one-off.
With Danny Salazar being optioned to Columbus last Friday, Bauer's chance to be a part of the Indians' rotation arrives when he will be added to the roster before today's game against Detroit.
"The really good part (of this) is it won't be just one start. He has been kind of bouncing around," Terry Francona said of Bauer on Monday. "I'm glad we got a chance to see a glimpse of it his last outing here and then he really kicked into gear in Triple A. We're kind of excited to see what he's going to do.
"This guy is going to be a big part of what we want to do going forward. To see him growing and understanding, it is exciting. He's been pretty good about listening and trying to open up to things. He's a good kid."
In his April 9 start against San Diego, Bauer struck out a career-high eight in six innings as he allowed two runs (one earned) gave up four hits and walked two. The Tribe ended up losing 2-1.
In seven starts for Columbus, Bauer was 3-1 with a 2.15 ERA and was eighth in the International League with 44 strikeouts. He has never faced Detroit and will be opposed by Justin Verlander.
Besides the move with Bauer, the Indians are expected to activate Jason Giambi from the disabled list and send down Jesus Aguilar to Columbus.
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