Series and matchups have gotten interesting early, but the one that might be the most exciting is Houston's trip to Cleveland as the Astros send their best starters up against the Indians. Between rumors, recoveries and players to follow on the field or in fantasy, what else do you need to know in the season's new week?
The series you have to watch: Astros at Indians, Tuesday through Thursday. The Indians had a stretch where they lost six of seven, but they're back on track thanks to a dominant run of starting pitching that included back-to-back shutouts of the White Sox on Friday and Saturday. The staff ERA remains near the bottom of the league, but there shouldn't be any major concerns as the Indians are sixth in the AL in strikeout rate. The Astros will see Josh Tomlin, Trevor Bauer and then Corey Kluber, who went the distance with a three-hitter in one of those shutouts.
The offense also has Jason Kipnis back from his spring training shoulder issue, although he didn't start Sunday. Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez have been carrying the offense, but the Tribe would really like to see Edwin Encarnacion get going.